Laundry Detergent

ABSTRACT

The present invention provides synergistic biocidal composition such as a synergistic detergent composition for use e.g. in disinfection and cleaning.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates to a laundry detergent composition,preferably a delicate laundry detergent, comprising one or more biocidelcompounds for washing of textiles and materials, where washing at lowtemperature is desired at the same time as obtaining a biocidel effect,as for example lingerie and underwear.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

When washing clothing fully or in part made of delicate natural fabricslike silk or wool there may be a conflict between the desire to protectand care for the fabrics and the desire to obtain clean clothing. Thismay especially be relevant when the clothes in question are such aslingerie or underwear.

Traditionally, underwear, bed sheets or kitchen towels have been washedat temperatures of 60 or 95° C., in order to obtain both visually andhygienic clean laundry. Over the years laundry detergent product havebeen developed that comprise enzymes, such as proteases, amylases,lipases, and cellulases; these laundry detergents are marketed forwashing at lower temperatures such as 30 or 40° C. as the enzymes aidsin the washing process. Recently, low-temperature detergents have beendeveloped that may be used at temperatures as low as 15-20° C., thesecontain newly developed enzymes aiding the washing process.

In the particular case with wool and silk textiles, the natural polymeron which the textile fiber is based is a protein and thus susceptible todegradation by the enzyme. In fact, depending on the enzyme and thewashing conditions, there is a real risk of the fabrics being graduallyeaten by the enzymes. Enzyme based detergents are not recommended forwool and silk containing textiles.

Presence of microorganisms in textiles or other materials may provide ahealth hazard. The Danish National Consumer Agency has stated that it incertain instances is necessary to do laundry at 95° C. This is forexample in cases of infectious diseases, in cases with particularlydirty textiles, such as diapers, and when laundering textiles comprisingsources of infection. Such sources of infection may be faeces, urine,blood, body fluids, etc. The temperature of 95° C. is to ensureelimination of such sources of infection, which modern enzyme containinglaundry detergents suitable for washing at e.g. 40° C. do not ensure.

There has recently furthermore been an increased focus on thepossibility of cross-contamination from one batch of laundry to thenext. If for instance one person has used a washing machine on e.g. 40°for textiles carrying a source of infection, and the next person usesthe same washing machine for washing at low temperature as well, e.g.delicate textiles such as lingerie at 30° C., there may be transferredmicroorganisms from one laundry batch to the next. This is for example arisk in apartment blocks with communal laundries, at launderettes, orespecially at communal laundries in nursing homes or hospitals with amajority of ill or frail persons susceptible both to provide theinfection or easily gain an infection from cross-contaminated clothes,bed linen or towels washed in a communal laundry.

Accordingly, in order to obtain a satisfying laundry of e.g. lingerie orunderwear, it is necessary to wash at at least 60° C. However, themanufactures of lingerie, or other delicate textiles, provide carelabels prescribing a washing temperature of 40° C. or less. The lack ofwashing at sufficiently high temperature gives rise to theabove-mentioned problems of cross-contamination or an actually continuedre-infection of the same person. This may for instance be the case withgenital fungal infections that in some may become chronic, or vaginitisin general, such as e.g. both candidiasis or bacterial vaginosis.Sources of infection are for example bacteria (such as e.g.Streptococcus, Staphylococcus aureus, Gardnerella, Escherichia coli,bacteriods, or mycoplasma), fungi (such as e.g. Candida albicans), orvira (such as e.g. HIV-1, Hepatitis B or Hepatitis C).

In addition to being sensitive towards enzymes, wool and silk textilesalso need to be washed at low temperatures of for example 30 or 40° C.and at gentle cycle in washing machine or gently by hand wash, in orderto avoid excessive shrinkage or deformation. It is further recommendedto avoid heavily alkaline pH. Therefore, a laundry detergent fordelicate fabrics, such as silk and wool, needs to be enzyme free, lessalkaline than traditional laundry detergents and suitable for washing atlow temperatures.

The above stated problems with cross-contamination or re-infection aretherefore especially relevant for such delicate textiles. Accordingly,unless the clothing items are only lightly soiled and there is no riskof infectious sources, there is a conflict between caring for the fabricand obtaining clean clothing. When the clothing items are such aslingerie or underwear there is special need for a delicate laundrydetergent that in addition to washing and caring for the fabric also canremove any undesired remains of bacteria, fungi or vira.

Due to the chemical nature of both laundry detergent ingredients andbiocidel compounds, it is well-known that not all combinations of suchingredients may provide a stable and effective composition that bothprovides detergent and biocidal properties.

Another well-known problem in the field of cleaning products is thatrather high concentrations of products comprising a single biocide arerequired and that the target microorganisms are likely to get resistanttowards the biocide used upon long-term treatment.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The inventors of the present invention have now surprisingly succeededin identifying a biocide composition comprising one or more biocideshaving synergistic effect thus minimizing the concentration required toobtain biocidal effect. Use of a 2 component biocidel composition mayalso reduce the risk that the microorganisms to be targeted getresistant towards the biocide composition.

The inventors of the present invention have furthermore surprisinglysucceeded in providing stable detergent compositions comprising one ormore biocides and one or more surfactants.

The biocidel composition according to the invention have many differentuses, one of which is as a laundry composition. Other non-limiting usesfor a biocidal composition according to the invention is e.g. in:

-   -   Disinfectants and general biocidel products such as in human        hygiene biocidel products; private area and public health area        disinfectants and other biocidel products; veterinary hygiene        biocidel products; and food and feed area disinfectants and        drinking water disinfectants;    -   Preservatives such as in in-can preservatives; film        preservatives; wood preservatives; fibre, leather, rubber and        polymerised materials preservatives; masonry preservatives;        preservatives for liquid-cooling and processing systems,        slimicides; textiles and metalworking-fluid preservatives;    -   Pest control such as in rodenticides; avicides; molluscicides;        pesticides; insecticides, acaricides and products to control        other arthropods; and repellents and attractants;    -   Other biocidal products such as in preservatives for food or        feedstocks; antifouling products; embalming and taxidermist        fluids; and control of other vertebrates;    -   Vermin such as in or on domestic animals, livestock or pets;    -   Alga; and    -   Products for use in e.g. spas, swimming pools and the like.

In another embodiment the present invention relates to a laundrydetergent composition, such as preferably a delicate laundry detergentcomposition, comprising one or more biocidal compounds. The compositionis preferably for washing textiles or materials made fully or in part ofsilk or wool, or other enzyme sensitive materials such as natural hair.

The composition is furthermore preferably a liquid laundry detergent,and may comprise one or more biocidal compounds selected from the groupconsisting of a PQ polymer, Poly(hexamethylenebiguanide)hydrochloride,Akacid Forte®, Akacid®, N,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammoniumpropionate (Bardap-26), povidone-iodine (PVP-iodine, Betadine™); benzylC₁₂₋₁₈-alkyldimethyl ammonium chlorides, benzyl C₁₂₋₁₄-alkyldimethylammonium chlorides, C₁₂₋₁₃-alkyl[(ethylphenyl)methyl]dimethyl ammoniumchlorides (ADBAC), di-C₈₋₁₀alkyldimethyl ammonium chloride (DDAC), andOctenidine dihydrochloride; or toxicological acceptable salts orsolvates thereof.

In another preferred embodiment of the invention the one or morebiocidal compounds is a synergistic combination which may be used assuch or as part of a composition also comprising one or moresurfactants.

In one preferred embodiment of the invention the one or more biocidalcompounds is a synergistical combination of one or more biocidalcompound, providing an increased biocidal effect compared to use ofeither biocidal compound alone in same total concentration. In anespecially preferred embodiment of the invention the biocidal compoundis a mixture of Akacid Forte® and Bardap-26.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of the invention relates to a biocidal composition, whichhave many different uses, one of which is as a laundry composition.Other non-limiting uses for a biocidal composition according to theinvention is e.g. in:

-   -   Disinfectants and general biocidal products such as in human        hygiene biocidal products; private area and public health area        disinfectants and other biocidal products; veterinary hygiene        biocidal products; and food and feed area disinfectants and        drinking water disinfectants;    -   Preservatives such as in in-can preservatives; film        preservatives; wood preservatives; fibre, leather, rubber and        polymerised materials preservatives; masonry preservatives;        preservatives for liquid-cooling and processing systems,        slimicides; and metalworking-fluid preservatives;    -   Pest control such as in rodenticides; avicides; molluscicides;        pesticides; insecticides, acaricides and products to control        other arthropods; and repellents and attractants; and    -   Other biocidal products such as in preservatives for food or        feedstocks; antifouling products; embalming and taxidermist        fluids; and control of other vertebrates;    -   Vermin such as in or on domestic animals, livestock or pets;    -   Alga; and    -   Products for use in e.g. spas, swimming pools and the like.

In one embodiment of the invention, the biocidal composition of theinvention comprises at least two biocides having synergistic effect. Inone embodiment, the biocidal composition of the invention does notcomprise a surfactant. In another embodiment of the invention, thebiocidal composition of the invention comprises one or more surfactants.

The inventors of the present invention surprisingly succeeded indefining the optimal biocidal detergent composition. Accordingly, theinventors found that stability problems of biocidal compositionscomprising one or more surfactants were due to micelle formation andthat such micelle formation which be avoided by carefully selecting anonionic or monovalent cationic surfactants. The inventors found thatthe most preferred detergent composition comprises surfactants such asnonionic or monovalent cationic surfactants such as of the generalformula R(OCH₂CH₂)_(x)OH wherein:

-   -   R is C₇₋₂₀-alkyl whereby the alkyl is of 7-20 carbon atoms        wherein R may optionally be substituted as defined herein; and    -   x is 2-12 whereby the polyethyleneglycol comprises 2-12        repetitions of OCH₂CH₂.

Micelle formation leads to encapsulation of biocide thus preventing thedetergent composition comprising one or more biocides to have efficientbiocidal effect. Accordingly, by preventing micelle formation, anefficient biocidal effect of the detergent composition comprising one ormore biocides can be maintained.

The inventors of the present invention also realized that the micelleformation may be avoided and thus that stable detergent compositions maybe obtained if the critical micelle concentration of the one or morebiocides (CMC(biocid)) is higher than the minimum inhibitoryconcentration of the one or more biocides (MIC(biocid)).

The inventors of the present invention also realized that the micelleformation may be avoided and thus that stable detergent compositions maybe obtained if the critical micelle concentration of the detergentcomposition (CMC(detergent)) is higher than the minimum inhibitoryconcentration of the one or more biocides (MIC(biocid)).

The inventors furthermore succeeded in identifying a surprisinglyefficient synergistic biocide composition comprising two or morebiocides. When comprised in a biocidal detergent composition, convincingresults have been obtained in that the biocidal effect of the biocidecomposition comprising two or more biocides is not influenced by thepresence of surfactants in said biocidal detergent composition.

The inventors of the present invention succeeded in providing biocidaldetergent compositions reducing the total amount of fungus with a factor10⁵ or more. In one embodiment of the invention, the total amount offungus was even reduced with a factor 10⁶. The inventors of the presentinvention furthermore succeeded in providing biocidal detergentcompositions reducing the total amount of bacteria with a factor 10⁷ ormore. The convincing reduction in fungus and bacteria thus obtained washighly surprising.

The same reduction in bacteria growth or yeast growth was obtainedindependently of the soap tested, however only as long as the soapcomprised a surfactant of the formula R(OCH₂CH₂)_(x)OH wherein:

-   -   R is C₇₋₂₀-alkyl whereby the alkyl is of 7-20 carbon atoms        wherein R may optionally be substituted as defined herein; and    -   and x is 2-12 whereby the polyethyleneglycol comprises 2-12        repetitions of OCH₂CH₂.

Is has also been shown that a biocidal detergent composition wherein thesurfactant comprises C₁₈-alkyl and wherein the one or more surfactantsin addition to (OCH₂CH₂)_(x)OH also comprises (OCH₂CH₂CH₂)_(x) onlyreduced the growth of microorganisms insignificantly in that only areduction of 10² was obtained.

One aspect of the invention relates to the use of a biocidal compositionaccording to the invention, with or without detergent, e.g. in:

-   -   Disinfectants and general biocidal products such as in human        hygiene biocidal products; private area and public health area        disinfectants and other biocidal products; veterinary hygiene        biocidal products; and food and feed area disinfectants and        drinking water disinfectants;    -   Preservatives such as in in-can preservatives; film        preservatives; wood preservatives; fibre, leather, rubber and        polymerised materials preservatives; masonry preservatives;        preservatives for liquid-cooling and processing systems,        slimicides; and metalworking-fluid preservatives;    -   Pest control such as in rodenticides; avicides; molluscicides;        pesticides; insecticides, acaricides and products to control        other arthropods; and repellents and attractants;    -   Other biocidal products such as in preservatives for food or        feedstocks; antifouling products; embalming and taxidermist        fluids; and control of other vertebrates;    -   Vermin such as in or on domestic animals, livestock or pets;    -   Alga; and    -   Products for use in e.g. spas, swimming pools and the like.

One aspect of the invention relates to a product which is a biocidalcomposition as such, i.e. a composition which does not comprisedetergent. In a preferred embodiment, said biocidal composition withoutdetergent comprises two or more biocides according to the invention,said biocides having synergistic effect. In one specific embodiment,said product is selected from the group consisting of disinfectants andgeneral biocidal products. In another specific embodiment, said productis a preservative. In yet another specific embodiment, said product is aproduct for pest control. In yet another embodiment, said product isselected from the group consisting of other biocidal products. In yetanother specific embodiment, said product is a product for treatment ofvermin. In yet another specific embodiment, said product is a productfor control of alga. In yet another specific embodiment, said product isfor use for disinfection, such as for disinfection of spas, swimmingpools and the like.

One aspect of the present invention relates to a laundry detergentcomposition, such as preferably a delicate laundry detergentcomposition, comprising one or more biocides.

It is an objective of the present invention to provide a laundrydetergent composition that may give, in addition to a detergent effect,a biocidal effect in order to eliminate or reduce the presence ofmicroorganisms in textiles or materials that are not suitable forwashing at high temperatures of 60° C. or 95° C.

It is furthermore an object of the present invention to provide alaundry detergent that may give, in addition to a detergent effect, abiocidal effect in order to eliminate or reduce the presence ofmicroorganisms in textiles or materials, such as bed linen or towelsfrom hospitals or nursing homes, that normally could be washed at hightemperatures of 95° C., for elimination of sources of infection, but dueto environmental considerations or practical considerations, such aslack of power, machinery etc in e.g. developing countries, preferablyshould be washed at lower temperatures.

The term “laundry detergent”, as used herein, is intended to meancompositions for washing textiles or materials (e.g. clothing, towels,other household textiles or wigs) includes both solid and liquiddetergent compositions, such as washing powder and liquid laundrydetergent, unless otherwise stated. The term does not comprise dishwashing detergents or other household cleaning agents.

In order to provide an easy to use consumer friendly product the laundrydetergent of the present invention is preferably an all-in-one product.Accordingly, the active ingredients for washing and the one or morebiocidal compounds are preferably in one and the same formulation, asopposed to a biocidal composition that is added before, during or afterthe actual washing process. An all-in-one product provides severaladvantages, for example being easy to use and fail-safe, i.e. theproduct is used as an ordinary laundry detergent not requiring knowledgeof e.g. soaking time, or incompatibility between product and detergents.

The terms “delicate wash”, “fine-fabric detergent”, and “delicatelaundry detergent”, as used herein, are intended to mean a laundrydetergent for washing delicate textiles or materials, such as e.g.lingerie, underwear, wool underwear, thermal underwear, stockings,tights, natural and/or synthetic wigs, bedclothes, duvets or relatedclothing or textile items, made fully or in part of silk, wool or othernatural fibres (such as hair and feathers) sensitive towards traditionalwashing powders or liquid laundry products containing enzymes. Unlessotherwise stated the delicate wash includes both solid and liquidcompositions. In one specific embodiment of the present invention thelaundry detergent, such as a delicate laundry detergent, do not compriseenzymes. A preferred embodiment of the present invention relates to adelicate laundry detergent; more preferably a delicate laundry detergentfor washing of textiles or materials made fully or in part of silk,wool, hair, feathers or other natural fibers; even more preferably adelicate laundry detergent for washing of textiles or materials madefully or in part of silk, wool, hair or feathers; and yet even morepreferably a delicate laundry detergent for washing of textiles ormaterials made fully or in part of silk or wool.

In addition to being sensitive towards enzymes, wool, silk and othernatural materials need to be washed at low temperatures. The laundrydetergent composition, and especially the delicate laundry detergentcomposition, according to the present invention may preferably besuitable for washing at low temperatures in a range of about 5° C. toabout 40° C., more preferably of about 10° C. to about 40° C., such asfor example of about 15° C. to about 40° C., of about 20° C. to about40° C., of about 20° C. to about 40° C., of about 15° C. to about 30°C., of about 20° C. or of about 30° C. In an embodiment of theinvention, the laundry detergent composition, and especially thedelicate laundry detergent composition, according to the presentinvention may preferably be suitable for washing at low temperatures ina range of about 20° C. to about 40° C., such as about 25° C. to about35° C. In a particular embodiment, of the invention, the laundrydetergent composition, and especially the delicate laundry detergentcomposition, according to the present invention may preferably besuitable for washing at low temperatures in a range of about 30° C. Whenthe term “suitable for washing” at a specified temperature is usedherein in relation to the laundry detergent composition, it is intendedto mean that the composition is effective at that temperature, both withrespect to the detergent properties and the biocidal properties.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the laundry detergentcomposition is for use in washing of clothing or textiles considered tobe a source of infection, such as preferably hospital or nursing homelaundry. In said embodiment it is preferred to use one or more biocidesthat eliminate especially E. coli fully, i.e. reduces the number ofmicroorganisms by at least 10⁶, more preferably by 10⁷ or more. Thepresent inventors have surprisingly found that by using a mixture of thebiocides Bardap-26 and Akacid Forte® a synergistically effect isobtained at low concentrations and even at low temperature i.e. 30° C.Hereby eliminating the need for washing at at least 75° C. to obtain thesame result with traditional laundry detergent compositions. See forexample S. Fijan et al. for a study of the temperature, time anddetergent needed to reduce/eliminate representative bacteria and fungi(Fijan et al.: Antimicrobial disinfection effect of a launderingprocedure for hospital textiles against various indicator bacteria andfungi using different substrates for simulating human excrements;Diagnostic Microbiology and Infectious Disease; 57 (2007) 251-257).

The terms “washing powder” and “solid detergent”, as used herein, areintended to mean a laundry detergent in solid, granular or powder form,and these terms may be used interchangeably.

The laundry detergent according to the present invention may be suitablefor both machine wash and hand wash. Alternatively, the detergentcomposition may be specifically suitable for machine wash orspecifically suitable for hand wash.

The terms “liquid laundry”, “liquid laundry detergent” and “laundrywashing liquid”, as used herein, are intended to mean a laundrydetergent in liquid form, as opposed to a solid detergent, and theseterms may be used interchangeably. In a preferred embodiment of thepresent invention the laundry detergent composition, such as a delicatelaundry detergent, is a liquid detergent composition.

The terms “biocide” or “biocidel compound”, as used herein, are intendedto mean a compound that eliminates or significantly reduces the growthof microorganisms. The terms may be used interchangeably herein andincludes, unless otherwise stated, antimicrobial compounds, such as e.g.germicides, antibiotics, antibacterials, antivirals, antifungals,antiprotozoals and antiparasites. The microorganisms to be effected bythese compounds may preferably be bacteria, vira or fungi; morepreferably bacteria and fungi. It is an object of the present inventionto provide a laundry composition that may eliminate or significantlyreduce the growth of microorganisms selected from the group consistingof bacteria (such as e.g. Streptococcus, Gardnerella, Staphylococcusaureus, Escherichia coli, bacteriods, or mycoplasma), fungi (such ase.g. Candida albicans), and vira (such as e.g. HIV-1, Hepatitis B orHepatitis C). The biocidel effect of a laundry detergent according tothe present invention may for instance be assayed against a group ofrepresentative microorganisms such as e.g. Staphylococcus aureus,Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans.

Biocides

The one or more biocides to be used in the present invention may be oneor more biocides approved for both human hygiene products and approvedfor use in private area and public health area products, as the presentinvention is to be used in private household laundry and at the sametime may come in contact with the person wearing the clothing havingbeen washed with a composition according to the present invention.

Such approved biocides may dependent on the geographical region andthereby on the authority in charge of the approval procedure. For Europethis is at present the European Commission and the listings of biocidescan be found in the Biocidal Products Directive 98/8/EC. For somegeographical regions no listings of approved biocides exist, in suchcases there may instead be a negative list of biocides that may not beused. For such geographical regions the biocides to be used in thepresent invention may be a biocide not present on a negative list. Inaddition to being approved, or not being present on a negative list, itis important that the biocides are compatible with the laundrydetergent. In one embodiment of the invention the biocide is notbenzalkonium chloride.

It is furthermore an object of the present invention to provide alaundry detergent composition, wherein the one or more biocides are twoor more biocides that together provide a synergistic effect on theelimination or reduction of microorganisms. By utilizing two differentbiocidal compounds, where one for example is especially effectivetowards bacteria and the other is especially effective towards fungi, asynergistic effect may be obtained with regard to the total biocidalactivity. Hereby obtaining a number of advantages of the compositionaccording to the invention, such as for example a reduction in theamount of total biocide present in the composition, and at the same timeobtain a superior effect on the total amount of microorganisms.

In one embodiment of the present invention the total amount ofmicroorganisms, preferably bacteria and fungi, are reduced by at least50%, preferably at least 60%, more preferably at least 70%, even morepreferably at least 80%, yet even more preferably at least 90%, and mostpreferably at least 99.9%. The reduction of microorganisms by thecompositions of the present invention may preferably be determinedaccording to the test described in the examples (see example 4A and 4B).The reduction in total amount of microorganisms may furthermore beexpressed as a reduction in log units. It is an object of the presentinvention to utilize one or more biocidal compounds providing areduction in fungus and bacteria of at least 3 and 4 log units,respectively, i.e. a reduction of 10³ and 10⁴; preferably of at least 4and 5 log units (10⁴ and 10⁵), respectively; more preferably of at least5 and 6 log units (10⁵ and 10⁶), respectively; and even more preferableof at least 6 and 7 log units (10⁶ and 10⁷), respectively.

Under current practice, in order to accept a product as having adesinfective ability a reduction of at least 10⁵ (5 log units) ofbacteria or at least 10⁴ (4 log units) reduction of yeast must bedemonstrated (EN 1276:1997, DS/EN 1275:2005).

The biocidal effect may furthermore preferably be tested and defined asthe effect on the following group of microorganisms: Escherichia coli,Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans; oralternatively on the following group of microorganisms Escherichia coli,Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans.

Escherichia coli have been chosen in order to represent a gram negativefaecal bacteria; Staphylococcus aureus have been chosen in order torepresent a gram positive, heat tolerant bacteria; Pseudomonasaeruginosa have been chosen in order to represent a disease causingbacteria that in some cases are difficult to treat; and Candida albicansrepresent the presence of fungi.

In one embodiment of the present invention the one or more biocide iseffective for reducing Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus,Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans.

In a particular embodiment of the invention, the one or more biocidesaccording to the invention have a Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC)of 1200 ppm or less. In an embodiment, the one or more biocides have aMIC of 700 ppm or less. In another embodiment, the one or more biocideshave a MIC of 200 ppm or less. In yet another embodiment, the one ormore biocides have a MIC of 160 ppm or less. In yet another embodiment,the one or more biocides have a MIC of 120 ppm or less. In yet anotherembodiment, the one or more biocides have a MIC of 80 ppm or less. In apreferred embodiment, the one or more biocides have a MIC of 40 ppm orless.

In one embodiment of the composition with or without detergent, the oneor more biocides are comprised in a total amount of about 100-5000 ppm.In an embodiment thereof the one or more biocides are comprised in atotal amount of about 100-2500 ppm; in an embodiment thereof the one ormore biocides are comprised in a total amount of about 100-1000 ppm; inan embodiment thereof the one or more biocides are comprised in a totalamount of about 150-800 ppm; in an embodiment thereof the one or morebiocides are comprised in a total amount of about 200-700 ppm; in anembodiment thereof the one or more biocides are comprised in a totalamount of about 20-100 ppm; and in a preferred embodiment thereof theone or more biocides are comprised in a total amount of about 250-600ppm. Alternatively, the one or more biocides may be comprised in a totalamount of less than 250 ppm, such as 250-200 ppm. In an embodimentthereof, the one or more biocides may be comprised in a total amount ofless than 150 such as less than 100 ppm.

In one embodiment of the present invention the one or more biocides areselected from the group consisting of:

-   -   a PQ polymer, such as e.g. polymeric quats,        N,N-Dimethyl-2-hydroxypropylammonium chloride polymer (Barquat®        PQ), from e.g. Lonza or The Polyquat Task Force;    -   a polymeric biguanide polymer, such as e.g. PHMB,        Poly(hexamethylenebiguanide)hydrochloride,        Poly(hexamethylenguanidinium chloride) (Akacid Forte®),        Poly(oxyalkyleneguanidine)hydrochloride (Akacid®);    -   an alkyl and dialkyl oxyethylene methyl ammonium salt, such as        e.g. N,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammonium propionate        (Bardap-26) or N,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammonium        lactate;    -   povidone-iodine (PVP-iodine, Betadine™);    -   an alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium salt or dialkyl methyl benzyl        ammonium salt, such as e.g. Coco benzyl dimethyl ammonium        chlorides or dicoco benzyl methyl ammonium chlorides with alkyl        groups predominantly C₁₂₋₁₄, benzyl C₁₂-18-alkyldimethyl        ammonium chlorides, benzyl C₁₂₋₁₄-alkyldimethyl ammonium        chlorides, or C₁₂₋₁₃-alkyl[(ethylphenyl)methyl]dimethyl ammonium        chlorides (ADBAC);    -   a dialkyl dimethyl ammonium salt, such as e.g.        di-C₈₋₁₀alkyldimethyl ammonium chloride, i.e. didecyl dimethyl        ammonium chloride, dioctyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, or octyl        decyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (DDAC); and    -   a bispyridine, such as e.g. Octenidine dihydrochloride (see Slee        et al., ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS AND CHEMOTHERAPY, (1983), 23(4), p.        531-535, for further bispyridines); or toxicological acceptable        salts or solvates thereof.

In one embodiment of the present invention the one or more biocides isselected from the group consisting of a PQ polymer; a polymericbiguanide polymer; an alkyl oxyethylene methyl ammonium salt; dialkyloxyethylene methyl ammonium salt; povidone-iodine; an alkyl dimethylbenzyl ammonium salt; dialkyl methyl benzyl ammonium salt; a dialkyldimethyl ammonium salt; and a bispyridine; or toxicological acceptablesalts or solvates thereof.

In a more specific embodiment of the present invention one of the one ormore biocides is a polymeric biguanide polymer, or toxicologicalacceptable salts or solvates thereof; and selected from the groupconsisting of PHMB, Poly(hexamethylenebiguanide)hydrochloride, AkacidForte®, and Akacid®, or other toxicological acceptable salts or solvatesthereof. In an even more specific embodiment of the present inventionone of the one or more biocides is selected from the group consisting ofAkacid Forte® and Akacid®, or mixtures thereof.

In another specific embodiment of the present invention one of the oneor more biocides is an alkyl or dialkyl oxyethylene methyl ammoniumsalt, and selected from the group consisting ofN,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammonium propionate (e.g. Bardap-26)and N,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammonium lactate. In an even morespecific embodiment of the present invention one of the one or morebiocides is Bardap-26.

In another specific embodiment of the present invention one or morebiocides are selected from the group consisting of polymericalk(an/en/yn)yl oxyethylene methyl ammonium salts, dialk(an/en/yn)yloxyethylene methyl ammonium salts and biguanide polymers; or othertoxicological acceptable salts or solvates thereof.

In another specific embodiment of the present invention one or morebiocides is an alkyl oxyethylene methyl ammonium salt or dialkyloxyethylene methyl ammonium salt such asN,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammonium propionate (e.g. Bardap 26).The molar weight of the active ingredient (CAS nr. 94667-33-1) inBardap-26 is about 454 g/mol.

In another specific embodiment of the present invention one or morebiocides is a Poly-(hexamethylene-guanidium chloride) (e.g. AkacidForte) or other toxicological acceptable salts or solvates thereof. Themolar weight of the active ingredient (CAS nr. 57028-96-3) in AkacidForte is about 1000 g/mol.

In another specific embodiment of the present invention one or morebiocides is a mixture of poly-(hexamethylene-guanidium chloride) (e.g.Akacid Forte) and N,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammonium propionate(e.g. Bardap 26). In an embodiment of the invention, the one or morebiocides is a mixture of poly-(hexamethylene-guanidium chloride) (e.g.Akacid Forte) and N,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammonium propionate(e.g. Bardap 26) in a ratio of 0.5-1.5:1-5 by weight. In anotherembodiment of the invention, the one or more biocides is a mixture ofpoly-(hexamethylene-guanidium chloride) (e.g. Akacid Forte) andN,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammonium propionate (e.g. Bardap 26)in a ratio of 0.8-1.2:2-4 by weight. In yet another embodiment of theinvention, the one or more biocides is a mixture ofpoly-(hexamethylene-guanidium chloride) (e.g. Akacid Forte) andN,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammonium propionate (e.g. Bardap 26)in a ratio of about 1:2 by weight. In a preferred embodiment of theinvention, the one or more biocides is a mixture ofpoly-(hexamethylene-guanidium chloride) (e.g. Akacid Forte) andN,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammonium propionate (e.g. Bardap 26)in a ratio of about 1:1 by weight. In yet another preferred embodimentof the invention, the one or more biocides is a mixture ofpoly-(hexamethylene-guanidium chloride) (e.g. Akacid Forte) andN,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammonium propionate (e.g. Bardap 26)in a ratio of about 1:3 by weight.

In an embodiment of the invention, Poly-(hexamethylene-guanidiumchloride) (e.g. Akacid Forte) andN,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammonium propionate (e.g. Bardap 26)is p

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention the one or morebiocides is a mixture of Poly-(hexamethylene-guanidium chloride) (e.g.Akacid Forte®) and N,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammoniumpropionate (e.g. Bardap-26), such as e.g. in a ratio of about 1:1,1:1.25, 1:1.5, 1:1.75, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:5, 1.25:1, 1.5:1, 1.75:1, 2:1,3:1, or 4:1; more preferably a mixture in a ratio of about 1:1, 1:1.25,1:1.5, 1:1.75, 1:2, 1:3, 1.25:1, 1.5:1, 1.75:1, 2:1, or 3:1; even morepreferably a mixture in a ratio of about 1:1, 1:1.25, 1:1.5, 1:1.75,1:2, 1.25:1, 1.5:1, 1.75:1, or 2:1; yet even more preferably essentiallya one to one mixture of Poly-(hexamethylene-guanidium chloride) (e.g.Akacid Forte®) and N,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammoniumpropionate (e.g. Bardap-26). This specific combination of biocides hassurprisingly been found to provide a synergistically effect in reducingall of the representative microorganisms Escherichia coli,Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans. It is especiallyinteresting that Candida albicans, which by the use of Akacid Fortealone in a concentration of 120 ppm was not reduced, and which by theuse of Bardap-26 alone a concentration of 120 ppm was reduced by ˜10³,can be reduced by >10⁶ by the use of a one to one mixture of the two ina total concentration of 120 ppm. Likewise it is interesting thatStaphylococcus aureus which by the use of Akacid Forte alone in aconcentration of 120 ppm was not reduced, and which by the use ofBardap-26 alone was reduced by 10²-10³, can be reduced by >10⁶ by theuse of a one to one mixture of the two in a total concentration of 120ppm. Furthermore, Escherichia coli may be reduced by >10⁶ by the use ofa one to one mixture of Bardap-26 and Akacid Forte in a concentration ofe.g. 120 ppm, but may only be reduced by 10⁴-10⁵ and 10³, respectively,by the use of the biocides alone. See Examples 4A and 4B herein forfurther details.

In another specific embodiment of the present invention one of the oneor more biocides is povidone-iodine (PVP-iodine, Betadine™)

In another specific embodiment of the present invention one of the oneor more biocides is an alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium salt or a dialkylmethyl benzyl ammonium salt; such as selected from the group consistingof Coco benzyl dimethyl ammonium chlorides or dicoco benzyl methylammonium chlorides with alkyl groups predominantly C₁₂₋₁₄, benzylC₁₂₋₁₈-alkyldimethyl ammonium chlorides, benzyl C₁₂₋₁₄-alkyldimethylammonium chlorides, and C₁₂₋₁₃-alkyl[(ethylphenyl)methyl]dimethylammonium chlorides (ADBAC); more preferablyC₁₂₋₁₃-alkyl[(ethylphenyl)methyl]dimethyl ammonium chlorides (ADBAC).

In another specific embodiment of the present invention one of the oneor more biocides is a dialkyl dimethyl ammonium salt; such asdi-C₈₋₁₀alkyldimethyl ammonium chloride; such as one or more selectedfrom the group consisting of didecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, dioctyldimethyl ammonium chloride, and octyl decyl dimethyl ammonium chloride(DDAC).

In another specific embodiment of the present invention one of the oneor more biocides is a bispyridine, or toxicological acceptable salts orsolvates thereof; such as one or more bispyridine selected from thebispyridines specified in Slee et al., ANTIMICROBIAL AGENTS ANDCHEMOTHERAPY, (1983), 23(4), p. 531-535; such as Octenidinedihydrochloride.

In another specific embodiment of the present invention one of the oneor more biocides is a PQ polymer, or toxicological acceptable salts orsolvates thereof; such as one or more polymeric quats, such asN,N-Dimethyl-2-hydroxypropylammonium chloride polymer (Barquat® PQ).

Biocides for use in the present invention may furthermore be quaternaryammonium compounds, such as one or more of the following:

1. Monoalkyltrimethyl ammonium salts, wherein the alkyl group e.g. is analkyl with 6-18 carbon atoms, preferably 12-14 carbon atoms, and thesalt is formed with an appropriate anion allowing ready watersolubility, for example: chloride, bromide, sulphate, acetate,propionate, lactate, citrate, methosulphate and carbonate, preferredexamples include C₁₂₋₁₄alkyl cocotrimethyl ammonium chloride;2. Dialkyl dimethyl ammonium salts, wherein alkyl groups may be the sameor different and contain 6-18 carbon atoms, preferably 8-10 carbonatoms, and the salt is formed with an anion of the type previouslydescribed, preferred examples include Didecyl dimethyl ammoniumchloride, dioctyl dimethyl ammonium chloride and octyl decyl dimethylammonium chloride;3. Alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium salts and dialkyl methyl benzylammonium salts, wherein alkyl groups may be the same or different andcontain 6-18 carbon atoms, preferably 8-10 carbon atoms in a dialkyl and10-14 carbon atoms in a monoalkyl, and the salt is formed with an anionof the type previously described, preferred examples include Coco benzyldimethyl ammonium chloride and dicoco benzyl methyl ammonium chloride inwhich the alkyl groups predominantly are C₁₂₋₁₄;4. Alkyl and dialkyl oxyethylene methyl ammonium salts, wherein alkylgroups may be the same or different and contain 6-18 carbon atoms,preferably 8-10 carbon atoms in a dialkyl and 10-14 carbon atoms in amonoalkyl, most preferably 10 carbon atoms, and the salt is formed withan anion of the type previously described, preferably propionate orlactate, preferred examples includeN,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammonium propionate (Bardap 26) orN,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammonium lactate; and5. Polymeric quaternary ammonium compounds in which active quaternaryammonium compounds are chemically grafted to a polymer backbone.

In an embodiment of the present invention the one or more biocides areselected from the group consisting ofN,N-Dimethyl-2-hydroxypropylammonium chloride polymer (Barquat® PQ),Poly(hexamethylenebiguanide) hydrochloride, Poly(hexamethylenguanidiniumchloride) (Akacid Forte®), Poly(oxyalkyleneguanidine)hydrochloride(Akacid®), N,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammonium propionate(Bardap 26), povidone-iodine (PVP-iodine, Betadine™); benzylC₁₂₋₁₈-alkyldimethyl ammonium chlorides, benzyl C₁₂₋₁₄-alkyldimethylammonium chlorides, C₁₂₋₁₃-alkyl[(ethylphenyl)methyl]dimethyl ammoniumchlorides (ADBAC), di-C₈₋₁₀alkyldimethyl ammonium chloride (DDAC), andOctenidine dihydrochloride; or toxicological acceptable salts orsolvates thereof.

The one or more biocides may be present in the composition according tothe present invention in an amount of less than 20% by weight, in arange from between 0.01% to 15%, such as e.g. in a range from 0.01% to12%, in a range from 0.10% to 10%, in a range from 0.10% to 8%, in arange from 0.5% to 8%, in a range from 1% to 8%, in a range from 1% to6%, or in a range from 1% to 5% by weight. It is an objective of thepresent invention to reduce the amount of biocide present in order tomeet environmental demands.

The amount of the one or more biocides may furthermore be expressed asamount present during use, i.e. when textiles are under the influence ofthe laundry detergent in an appropriate amount of water. This amount ofbiocide compound may be in a range from about 200 ppm to about 2 ppm,such as e.g. in a range from about 200 ppm to about 10 ppm or from about200 ppm to about 20 ppm, more from about 180 ppm to about 20 ppm, suchas e.g. about 180 ppm to about 40 ppm, even more from about 160 ppm toabout 20 ppm, such as e.g. about 160 to about 40 ppm, yet even more fromabout 160 ppm to about 80 ppm, and yet even more form about 160 ppm toabout 120 ppm, such as e.g. specifically about 120 ppm.

The amount of biocide is preferably reduced by using a combination ofone or more biocides eliciting a synergistical effect on one or morerepresentative microorganisms, such as for example E. coli,Staphylococcus aureaus and Candida albicans.

Detergent Compositions

The detergent composition according to the present invention maypreferably, in addition to the one or more biocide, further comprise

-   -   i) one or more surfactants;    -   ii) one or more liquid carriers; and    -   iii) one or more chelating agents.

Furthermore, the detergent composition according to the presentinvention may preferably, in addition to the one or more biocide,further comprise

-   -   i) one or more surfactants;    -   ii) one or more liquid carriers;    -   iii) one or more chelating agents; and    -   iv) one or more detergent builders.

In an embodiment, the detergent compositions according to the inventioncomprises:

-   -   one or more liquid carriers in a total amount of about 60-95%        (w/w); in an embodiment thereof the one or more liquid carriers        are comprised in a total amount of about 70-90% (w/w); and in a        preferred embodiment thereof the one or more liquid carriers are        comprised in a total amount of about 75-85% (w/w); and    -   one or more chelating agents in a total amount of about 1-5%        (w/w); in an embodiment thereof the one or more chelating agents        are comprised in a total amount of about 2-4% (w/w); in a        preferred embodiment thereof the one or more chelating agents        are comprised in a total amount of about 3% (w/w);    -   one or more surfactants in a total amount of about 200-6000 ppm;        in an embodiment thereof the one or more surfactants are        comprised in a total amount of about 300-3000 ppm; in an        embodiment thereof the one or more surfactants are comprised in        a total amount of about 400-2000 ppm; in an embodiment thereof        the one or more surfactants are comprised in a total amount of        about 500-1500 ppm; in a preferred embodiment thereof the one or        more surfactants are comprised in a total amount of about        600-1400 ppm; and    -   optionally, one or more biocides in a total amount of about        100-5000 ppm. In an embodiment thereof the one or more biocides        are comprised in a total amount of about 100-2500 ppm; in an        embodiment thereof the one or more biocides are comprised in a        total amount of about 100-1000 ppm; in an embodiment thereof the        one or more biocides are comprised in a total amount of about        150-800 ppm; in an embodiment thereof the one or more biocides        are comprised in a total amount of about 200-700 ppm; in an        embodiment thereof the one or more biocides are comprised in a        total amount of about 20-100 ppm; and in a preferred embodiment        thereof the one or more biocides are comprised in a total amount        of about 250-600 ppm.

In a preferred embodiment of the biocidal detergent composition ofinvention, the one or more biocides fulfil the criterion thatCMC(biocid)>MIC(biocides).

In another preferred embodiment of the biocidal detergent composition ofinvention, said detergent composition fulfil the criterion thatCMC(detergent)>MIC(biocides).

Within the context of the present invention, MIC for yeast is theminimum inhibitory concentration of the one or more biocides at which areduction of at least 10² of yeast is obtained.

Within the context of the present invention, MIC for bacteria is theminimum inhibitory concentration of the one or more biocides at which areduction of at least 10³ of bacteria is obtained.

The present detergent compositions may comprise as one essentialcomponent at least one surfactant selected from the group consisting ofanionic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants,nonionic surfactants, cationic surfactants such as monovalent cationicsurfactants, and mixtures thereof. By nature, any surfactant known inthe art of detergent compositions may be used, such as disclosed in (1)“Surfactant Science Series”, Vol. 7, edited by W. M. Linfield, MarcelDekker and in (2) “Surface—Active Agents & Detergents”, Volumes I andII, by Schwatz, Perry and Berch. Suitable levels of this component arein the range from 1.0% to 80%, preferably from 5.0% to 65%, morepreferably from 10% to 50% by weight of the composition.

In one embodiment, the biocidal detergent composition of the inventioncomprises surfactant:one or more biocides in a ratio of 2-12:1-5 byweight. In another embodiment, said biocidal detergent compositioncomprises surfactant:one or more biocides in a ratio of 5-9:2-4 byweight. In a preferred embodiment, said biocidal detergent compositoncomprises surfactant:one or more biocides in a ratio of about 7:3 (w/w).

A specific embodiment of the invention relates to a biocidal compositioncomprising water, propylene glycol, methylglycinediacetic acid (e.g.Trilon M), iso-C13 alcohol ethoxylate (e.g. Lutensol TO 89),N,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammonium propionate (e.g. Bardap 26)and poly-(hexamethylene-guanidium chloride) (e.g. Akacid Forte).

Another specific embodiment of the invention relates to a biocidalcomposition comprising water, propylene glycol, methylglycinediaceticacid (e.g. Trilon M), a mixture of fatty alcohols with 9 mol ethyleneoxide and fatty alcohols with 3 mol ethylene oxide (e.g. Marlipal®24/939), N,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammonium propionate (e.g.Bardap 26) and poly-(hexamethylene-guanidium chloride) (e.g. AkacidForte).

In an embodiment of the invention, the biocidal detergent compositionaccording to the invention has a CMC of at least 0.5 mmol/l. In anotherembodiment, said CMC is at least 1 mmol/l. In another embodiment, saidCMC is at least 1.5 mmol/l. In yet another embodiment, said CMC is atleast 2 mmol/l. In yet another embodiment, said CMC is at least 2.5mmol/l. In yet another embodiment thereof, said CMC is at least 3mmol/l.

In an embodiment of the invention, the biocidal detergent compositionaccording to the invention has a CMC of at least 0.02 g/l. In anotherembodiment, said CMC is at least 0.03 g/l. In yet another embodiment,said CMC is at least 0.05 g/l. In yet another embodiment, said CMC is atleast 0.1 g/l. In yet another embodiment, said CMC is at least 0.15 g/l.

In an embodiment of the invention, the one or more biocides according tothe invention have a CMC of at least 0.02 g/l. In another embodiment,said CMC is at least 0.03 g/l. In yet another embodiment, said CMC is atleast 0.05 g/l. In yet another embodiment, said CMC is at least 0.1 g/l.In yet another embodiment, said CMC is at least 0.15 g/l.

Surfactants

A surfactant according to the invention is preferably a nonionic ormonovalent cationic surfactants and is preferably of the general formulaI:

R(OCH₂CH₂)_(x)OH

wherein

-   i) R is C₇₋₂₀-alkyl whereby the alkyl is of 7-20 carbon atoms; said    R may optionally be substituted with one or more substituents    selected from the group consisting of alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl,    C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₁₋₆-alkyl-C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl,    aryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, aryl, C₁₋₆-alkyl-aryl, aryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl,    C₁₋₆-alkyl-oxy, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-oxy, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl-oxy,    C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-oxy-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₁₋₆-alkyl-oxy-C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl,    C₁₋₆-alkyl-C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-oxy. aryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl-oxy and aryl, or R    may optionally be substituted with one or two groups selected from    R_(a)(OCH₂CH₂)_(y)OH and R_(b)(OCH₂CH₂)_(z)OH;

wherein

-   -   a. Each of R_(a) and R_(b) are independently C₇₋₂₀-alkyl whereby        the alkyl is of 7-20 carbon atoms;    -   b. Each of y and z is 2-12 whereby the polyethyleneglycol        comprises 2-12 repetitions of OCH₂CH₂; and

-   ii) and x is 2-12 whereby the polyethyleneglycol comprises 2-12    repetitions of OCH₂CH₂.

with the proviso that when R is C₁₋₈-alkyl then the surfactant may notcomprise an alkoxylated moiety that comprises higher alkoxides than theethylene oxides.

Within the context of the present invention, the term ‘C₇₋₂₀-alkyl’refers to a branched or unbranched C₇₋₂₀-alkanyl, C₇₋₂₀-alkenyl orC₇₋₂₀-alkynyl group wherein:

-   -   ‘C₇₋₂₀-alkanyl’ refers to an alkanyl group that is 7-20 carbon        atoms long;    -   ‘C₇₋₂₀-alkenyl’ designates an alkenyl groups that is 7-20 carbon        atoms long; said group including one or more double bonds and    -   ‘C₇₋₂₀-alkynyl’ designates an alkynyl group that is 7-20 carbon        atoms long, said group including one or more triple bonds.

Similarly, the term ‘C₁₋₆-alkyl’ refers to a branched or unbranchedC₁₋₆-alkanyl, C₂₋₆-alkenyl or C₂₋₆-alkynyl wherein:

-   -   C₁₋₆-alkanyl’ refers to an alkanyl group that is 1-6 carbon        atoms long;    -   ‘C₂₋₆-alkenyl’ designates an alkenyl groups that is 2-6 carbon        atoms long; said group including one or more double bonds and    -   ‘C₂₋₆-alkynyl’ designates an alkynyl group that is 2-6 carbon        atoms long, said group including one or more triple bonds.

The term ‘C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl’ refers to a C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl or aC₃₋₈-cycloalkenyl group wherein:

-   -   ‘C₃₋₈-cycloalkanyl’ designates a monocyclic or bicyclic        carbocycle having three to eight C-atoms, including but not        limited to cyclopropyl, cyclopentyl, cyclohexyl etc.; and    -   ‘C₃₋₈-cycloalkenyl’ designates a monocyclic or bicyclic        carbocycle having three to eight C-atoms and one double bond,        including but not limited to cyclopropenyl, cyclopentenyl,        cyclohexenyl, etc.

The term ‘aryl’ refers to a carbocyclic aromatic group, such as phenylor naphthyl.

The term ‘C₁₋₆-alkyl-oxy’ refers to groups of the formula C₁₋₆-alkyl-O—wherein C₁₋₆-alkyl is as defined above.

The term ‘C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-oxy’ refers to groups of the formulaC₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-O— wherein C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl is as defined above.

In the terms C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₁₋₆-alkyl-C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl,aryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₁₋₆-alkyl-aryl, aryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₁₋₆-alkyl-oxy,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-oxy, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl-oxy,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-oxy-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₁₋₆-alkyl-oxy-C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl,C₁₋₆-alkyl-C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-oxy. aryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl-oxy and aryl the termsC₁₋₆-alkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl, aryl, C₁₋₆-alkyl-oxy andC₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-oxy are as defined above.

Surfactants of general formula (I) may be prepared using conventionalmethods known to the person skilled in the art.

In one embodiment of the general formula I, x is 4-8 whereby thepolyethylene glycol-moiety comprised in the surfactant in average has4-8 repetitions of OCH₂CH₂.

In a preferred embodiment of the general formula I, x is 3-12 wherebythe polyethylene glycol-moiety comprised in the surfactant in averagehas 3-12 repetitions of OCH₂CH₂.

In another preferred embodiment of formula I, x is 8.

In another preferred embodiment of formula I, x is selected from 3 and 9and mixtures thereof.

In one embodiment of formula I, R is C₁₀₋₁₈-alkyl.

In one embodiment of formula I, R is C₁₂₋₁₄-alkyl. In one embodiment offormula I, R is C₁₂-alkyl. In one embodiment of formula I, R isC₁₃-alkyl. In one embodiment of formula I, R is C₁₄-alkyl.

In another embodiment of formula I, at least 80% by weight of R isC₁₂-alkyl, C₁₃-alkyl or C₁₄-alkyl or mixtures thereof. In one embodimentof formula I, R is C₁₀₋₁₈-alkyl.

In another embodiment of formula I, at least 90% by weight of R isC₁₂-alkyl, C₁₃-alkyl or C₁₄-alkyl or mixtures thereof. In one embodimentof formula 1, 60-80% by weight, such as 65-75% by weight of R isC₁₂-alkyl. In another embodiment of formula 1, 15-35% by weight, such as20-30% by weight of R is C₁₄-alkyl. In a particular embodiment offormula I, 60-80% by weight, such as 65-75% by weight of R is C₁₂-alkyl.15-35% by weight, such as 20-30% by weight of R is C₁₄-alkyl.

In one embodiment of formula I, no more than 5% by weight, such as lessthan 2% by weight and preferably less than 1% by weight of R isC₁₀-alkyl.

In one embodiment of formula I, no more than 5% by weight, such as lessthan 2% by weight, less than 1% and preferably less than 0.5% by weightof R is C₁₇₋₁₈-alkyl.

In one embodiment of formula I, no more than 5% by weight, such as lessthan 2% by weight, less than 1% and preferably less than 0.5% by weightof R is C₁₈-alkyl.

In one embodiment R is essentially not C₁₈-alkyl.

In one embodiment formula (I), R is substituted with one or moresubstituents selected from the group consisting of C₁₋₆-alk(en/yn)yl,C₃₋₈-cycloalk(en)yl, C₃₋₈-cycloalk(en)yl-C₁₋₆-alk(en/yn)yl,C₁₋₆-alk(en/yn)yl-C₃₋₈-cycloalk(en)yl, aryl-C₁₋₆-alk (en/yn)yl, aryl,C₁₋₆-alk(en/yn)yl-aryl, aryl-C₁₋₆-alk(en/yn)yl, C₁₋₆-alk(en/yn)yl-oxy,C₃₋₈-cycloalk(en)yl-oxy, C₃₋₈-cycloalk(en)yl-C₁₋₆-alk(en/yn)yl-oxy,C₃₋₈-cycloalk(en)yl-oxy-C₁₋₆-alk(en/yn)yl,C₁₋₆-alk(en/yn)yl-oxy-C₃₋₈-cycloalk(en)yl,C₁₋₆-alk(en/yn)yl-C₃₋₈-cycloalk(en)yl-oxy. aryl-C₁₋₆-alk(en/yn)yl-oxyand aryl-oxy-C₁₋₆-alk (en/yn)yl and aryl.

In another embodiment of formula (I), R is substituted with one or twogroups selected from R_(a)(OCH₂CH₂)_(y)OH and R_(b)(OCH₂CH₂)_(z)OH.

In yet another embodiment of formula (I), R is not substituted.

In an embodiment of the invention, the molar weight of a surfactantaccording to the invention is in the range of 100-1500 g/mol. In anembodiment thereof, the molar weight of a surfactant is in the range of200-1000 g/mol. In an embodiment thereof, the molar weight of asurfactant is in the range of 300-800 g/mol. In a preferred embodimentthereof, the molar weight of a surfactant is in the range of 400-700g/mol.

In an embodiment of the present invention the one or more surfactants isselected from the group consisting of zwitterionic surfactants,amphoteric surfactants, nonionic surfactants, cationic surfactants suchas monovalent cationic surfactants, and mixtures thereof. In anembodiment of the present invention the one or more surfactants isselected from the group consisting of amphoteric surfactants, andnonionic surfactants, and mixtures thereof.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the one or more surfactantsare selected from the group consisting of Marlipal® 24/939, Daclor70-1-23, Stepanol WA-extra E, Lutensol TO 89, and combinations thereof.See further details herein below.

In an embodiment of the present invention, the one or more surfactantsare selected from the group consisting of Marlipal® 24/939, Daclor70-1-23, Stepanol WA-extra E, Lutensol TO 89, Ampholac 7TX, andcombinations thereof.

In a specific embodiment of the present invention two of the one or moresurfactants are Marlipal® 24/939 and Ampholac 7TX.

In a most preferred embodiment, the one or more surfactants comprised ina surfactant containing biocidel composition of the invention areselected from the group consisting of nonionic surfactants such asalkoxylated nonionic surfactants.

Liquid Carriers

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the one or moreliquid carriers are selected from the group consisting of water,ethanol, glycerol, glycerine, propylene glycol and combinations thereof.See further details herein below.

Chelatinq Agents

In an embodiment of the present invention, the one or more chelatingagents are selected from the group consisting of Masquol P320 Na,methylglycinediacetic acid (e.g. Trilon M), Potassium tripolyphosphate,and combinations thereof. In a more preferred embodiment, the one ormore chelating agents is methylglycinediacetic acid (e.g. Trilon M) e.g.as the trisodium salt or other toxicological acceptable salts orsolvates thereof. See further details herein below.

Detergent Builder

In an embodiment of the present invention, the one or more detergentbuilder are selected from the group consisting of Mackadet® 40K, softsoap, sodium citrate, and combinations thereof. In a more preferredembodiment of the detergent according to the invention, said detergentdoes not comprise a detergent builder as defined herein. See furtherdetails herein below.

Anionic Surfactants

The compositions of the invention may comprise an anionic surfactant.The compositions of the present invention may comprise a sulphonic acidsurfactant, such as e.g., an alcohol ether sulphate sodium salt, e.g.C₁₂₋₁₃ alcohol ethylene glycol ether sulphate sodium salt (Daclor®70-1-23 AL), or a linear alkyl benzene sulphonic acid or water-solublesalt forms thereof. Anionic surfactant(s) are typically present at alevel of from 1.0% to 70%, preferably from 5.0% to 50% by weight, andmore preferably from 10% to 30% by weight of the composition.

Anionic sulfonate or sulfonic acid surfactants suitable for use hereininclude the acid and salt forms of C₅₋₂₀, more preferably C₁₀₋₁₆, morepreferably C₁₁₋₁₃ alkylbenzene sulfonates, C₅₋₂₀ alkyl ester sulfonates,C₆₋₂₂ primary or secondary alkane sulfonates, C₅₋₂₀ sulfonatepolycarboxylic acids, and any mixtures thereof, but preferably C₁₁₋₁₃alkylbenzene sulfonates.

Anionic sulphate salts or acids surfactants suitable for use in thecompositions of the invention include the primary and secondary alkylsulphates, having a linear or branched alkyl or alkenyl moiety havingfrom 9 to 22 carbon atoms, preferably from 10 to 18 carbon atoms, andmore preferably from 12 to 18 carbon atoms. In one embodiment of thecomposition according to the present invention one of the anionicsurfactants are sodium lauryl sulfate (such as e.g. Stepanol® WA-Extra).

Also useful are beta-branched alkyl sulphate surfactants or mixtures ofcommercial available materials, having a weight average (of thesurfactant or the mixture) branching degree of at least 50%. Mid-chainbranched alkyl sulphates or sulfonates are also suitable anionicsurfactants for use in the compositions of the invention. Preferred arethe C₅₋₂₂, preferably C₁₀₋₂₀ mid-chain branched alkyl primary sulphates.When mixtures are used, a suitable average total number of carbon atomsfor the alkyl moieties is preferably within the range of from greaterthan 14.5 to 17.5. Preferred mono-methyl-branched primary alkylsulphates are selected from the group consisting of the 3-methyl to13-methyl pentadecanol sulphates, the corresponding hexadecanolsulphates, and mixtures thereof. Dimethyl derivatives or otherbiodegradable alkyl sulphates having light branching can similarly beused.

Other suitable anionic surfactants for use herein include fatty methylester sulphonates and/or alkyl ethoxy sulphates (AES) and/or alkylpolyalkoxylated carboxylates (AEC). Mixtures of anionic surfactants canbe used, for example mixtures of alkylbenzenesulphonates and AES.

The anionic surfactants are typically present in the form of their saltswith alkanolamines or alkali metals such as sodium and potassium.Preferably, the anionic surfactants are neutralized with alkanolaminessuch as Mono Ethanol Amine or Triethanolamine, and are fully soluble inthe liquid matrix of the compositions herein.

Amphoteric and Zwitterionic Surfactants

Suitable amphoteric or zwitterionic detersive surfactants for use in thecomposition herein include those which are known for use in hair care orother personal care cleansing. Non-limiting examples of suitablezwitterionic or amphoteric surfactants are described in U.S. Pat. Nos.5,104,646 (Bolich Jr. et al.), 5,106,609 (Bolich Jr. et al.).

Amphoteric detersive surfactants suitable for use in the composition arewell known in the art, and include those surfactants broadly describedas derivatives of aliphatic secondary and tertiary amines in which thealiphatic radical can be straight or branched chain and wherein one ofthe aliphatic substituents contains from 8 to 18 carbon atoms and onecontains an anionic group such as carboxy, sulfonate, sulfate,phosphate, or phosphonate. Suitable amphoteric detersive surfactants foruse in the present invention include cocoamphoacetate,cocoamphodiacetate, lauroamphoacetate, lauroamphodiacetate, and mixturesthereof.

Zwitterionic detersive surfactants suitable for use in the compositionsare well known in the art, and include those surfactants broadlydescribed as derivatives of aliphatic quaternary ammonium, phosphonium,and sulfonium compounds, in which the aliphatic radicals can be straightor branched chain, and wherein one of the aliphatic substituentscontains from 8 to 18 carbon atoms and one contains an anionic groupsuch as carboxy, sulfonate, sulfate, phosphate or phosphonate.Zwitterionics such as betaines are suitable for use in this invention.

Furthermore, amine oxide surfactants having the formula:

R(EO)_(x)(PO)_(y)(BO)_(z)N(O)(CH₂R′)₂.qH₂O (I) are also suitable forincorporation within the compositions of the present invention. R is arelatively long-chain hydrocarbyl moiety which can be saturated orunsaturated, linear or branched, and can contain from 8 to 20,preferably from 10 to 16 carbon atoms, and is more preferably C₁₂₋₁₆primary alkyl. R′ is a short-chain moiety preferably selected fromhydrogen, methyl and —CH₂OH. When x+y+z is different from 0, EO isethyleneoxy, PO is propyleneneoxy and BO is butyleneoxy. Amine oxidesurfactants are illustrated by C₁₂₋₁₄ alkyldimethyl amine oxide.

Non-limiting examples of other anionic, zwitterionic, amphoteric oroptional additional surfactants suitable for use in the compositions aredescribed in McCutcheon's, Emulsifiers and Detergents, 1989 Annual,published by M. C. Publishing Co., and in U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,929,678,2,658,072; 2,438,091; 2,528,378. A preferred amphoteric surfactant isAmpholac 7TX™ also known as sodium talgamphopylycarboxyglycinate.

Nonionic Surfactants

In one embodiment of the present invention, the surfactant of formula Iis a non-ionic surfactant.

The present compositions may also comprise, and preferably do comprise,this type of detersive surfactant. Essentially any alkoxylated nonionicsurfactant, suitably ones containing only carbon, hydrogen and oxygencan be included in the present compositions, although amidofunctionaland other heteroatom-functional types can in general also be used.Ethoxylated, propoxylated, butoxylated or mixed alkoxylated, for exampleethoxylated/propoxylated aliphatic or aromatic hydrocarbyl chainnonionic surfactants are preferred. Suitable hydrocarbyl moieties cancontain from 6 to 22 carbon atoms and can be linear, branched,cycloaliphatic or aromatic and the nonionic surfactant can be derivedfrom a primary or secondary alcohol.

Preferred alkoxylated surfactants can be selected from the classes ofthe nonionic condensates of ethoxylated and ethoxylated/propoxylated orpropoxylated/ethoxylated linear or lightly branched monohydric aliphaticalcohols, which can be natural or synthetic.

In a preferred embodiment, the one or more nonionic surfactants areselected from the group consisting of a C₁₂₋₁₄ alcohol polyethyleneglycol ether mixture such as a mixture of fatty alcohols with 9 molethylene oxide and fatty alcohols with 3 mol ethylene oxide (e.g.Marlipal® 24/939); and iso-C₁₂₋₁₄ alcohol ethoxylates such as iso-C₁₃alcohol ethoxylate (e.g. Lutensol TO 89) and combinations thereof.

In one preferred embodiment of the invention the composition comprisesthe nonionic ethoxylate as a linear alcohol ethoxylate, such as e.g. aC₁₂₋₁₄ alcohol polyethylene glycol ether mixture (e.g. CAS-NR 68439-50-9comprised in Marlipal 24/939™ being a mixture of fatty alcohols with 9mol ethylene oxide and fatty alcohols with 3 mol ethylene oxide) andcombinations thereof. The average molar weight of CAS-NR 68439-50-9comprised in Marlipal 24/939™ is about 447 g/mol.

In another preferred embodiment of the invention the compositioncomprises the nonionic ethoxylate which is selected from the groupconsisting of iso-alcohol ethoxylates such as iso-C₁₂₋₁₄ alcoholethoxylates, such as preferably iso-C₁₃alchol ethoxylate (e.g. CAS nr.69011-36-5 comprised in Lutensol® TO) of the formula: RO(CH₂CH₂O)_(x)H,wherein R=iso-C₁₃H₂₇ and x=2, 3, 5, 6, 6, 5, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 15, 20;and combinations thereof. More preferably Lutensol® TO 89, which hasx=8. The molar weight of CAS nr. 69011-36-5 comprised in Lutensol® TO 89is about 600 g/mol.

When R is C₁₋₈-alkyl, then the surfactant may not comprise analkoxylated moiety that comprises higher alkoxides than the ethyleneoxides, such as Plurafac® LF 300 comprising CAS nr. 69227-21-0, which isa low foaming nonionic surfactant. Plurafac® LF 300 is a 012-18 alcoholwhich is ethoxylated propoxylated. Accordingly, Plurafac® is not withinthe scope of above formula I.

Alkylphenyl alkoxylates such as the nonylphenyl ethoxylates can alsosuitably be used. A preferred nonionic surfactant is Marlipal 24/939™.Another preferred nonionic surfactant is Lutensol TO 89.

Especially suitable as nonionic surfactant or co-surfactant are thecondensation products of primary aliphatic alcohols with from 1 to 75moles of C₂₋₃ alkylene oxide, more suitably 1 to 15 moles, preferably 1to 11 moles. Particularly preferred are the condensation products ofalcohols having an alkyl group containing from 8 to 20 carbon atoms withfrom 2 to 9 moles and in particular 3 or 5 moles, of ethylene oxide permole of alcohol.

Suitable nonionic surfactants containing nitrogen as heteroatom includethe polyhydroxy fatty amides having the structural formula R¹CONRZ,wherein R¹ is a C₅₋₃₁ hydrocarbyl, preferably straight-chain C₇₋₁₉ alkylor alkenyl, more preferably straight-chain C₁₁₋₁₇ alkyl or alkenyl, ormixture thereof; R² is H, C₁₋₁₈, preferably C₁₋₄ hydrocarbyl,2-hydroxethyl, 2-hydroxypropyl, ethoxy, propoxy, or a mixture thereof,preferably C₁₋₄ alkyl, more preferably methyl; and Z is apolyhydroxyhydrocarbyl having a linear hydrocarbyl chain with at least 3hydroxyls directly connected to the chain. Z preferably will be derivedfrom a reducing sugar such as glucose, a corresponding preferredcompound being a C₁₁₋₁₇ alkyl N-methyl glucamide.

Other nonionic surfactants useful herein include the so-called “capped”nonionics in which one or more-OH moieties are replaced by —OR, whereinR is typically lower alkyl such as C₁₋₃ alkyl; the long-chain alkylpolysaccharides, more particularly the polyglycoside and/oroligosaccharide type, as well as nonionic surfactants derivable byesterifying fatty acids.

Cationic Nitrogen-Containing Detersive Surfactants

Cationic nitrogen-containing detersive surfactants suitable for use inthe compositions of the present invention have at least one quaternizednitrogen and one long-chain hydrocarbyl group. Compounds comprising two,three or even four long-chain hydrocarbyl groups are also included.Examples of such cationic surfactants include alkyltrimethylammoniumsalts or their hydroxyalkyl substituted analogs, preferably compoundshaving the formula R₁R₂R₃R₄N⁺X⁻. R₁, R₂, R₃ and R₄ are independentlyselected from C₁₋₂₆ alkyl, alkenyl, hydroxyalkyl, benzyl, alkylbenzyl,alkenylbenzyl, benzylalkyl, benzylalkenyl and X is an anion. Thehydrocarbyl groups R₁, R₂, R₃ and R₄ can independently be alkoxylated,preferably ethoxylated or propoxylated, more preferably ethoxylated withgroups of the general formula (C₂H₄O)_(x)H where x has a value from 1 to15, preferably from 2 to 5. Not more than one of R₂, R₃ or R₄ should bebenzyl. The hydrocarbyl groups R₁, R₂, R₃ and R₄ can independentlycomprise one or more, preferably two, ester-([—O—C(O)—]; [—C(O)—O—])and/or an amido-groups ([O—N(R)—]; [—N(R)—O—]), wherein R is defined asR1 above. The anion X may be selected from halide, methylsulfate,acetate and phosphate, preferably from halide and methylsulfate, morepreferably from chloride and bromide. The R₁, R₂, R₃ and R₄ hydrocarbylchains can be fully saturated or unsaturated with varying Iodine value,preferably with an Iodine value of from 0 to 140. At least 50% of eachlong chain alkyl or alkenyl group is predominantly linear, but alsobranched and/or cyclic groups are included.

For cationic surfactants comprising only one long hydrocarbyl chain, thepreferred alkyl chain length for R₁ is C₁₂₋₁₅ and preferred groups forR₂, R₃ and R₄ are methyl and hydroxyethyl.

In a preferred embodiment, the cationic surfactants according to theinvention are monovalent.

For cationic surfactants comprising two or three or even four longhydrocarbyl chains, the preferred overall chain length is C₁₈, thoughmixtures of chain lengths having non-zero proportions of lower, e.g.,C₁₂, C₁₄, C₁₆ and some higher, e.g., C₂₀ chains can be quite desirable.

Preferred ester-containing surfactants have the general formula{(R₅)₂N((CH₂)_(n)ER₆)₂}⁺X⁻, wherein each R₅ group is independentlyselected from C₁₋₄ alkyl, hydroxyalkyl or C₂₋₄ alkenyl; and wherein eachR₆ is independently selected from C₈₋₂₈ alkyl or alkenyl groups; E is anester moiety i.e., —OC(O)— or —C(O)O—, n is an integer from 0 to 5, andX is a suitable anion, for example chloride, methosulfate and mixturesthereof.

A second type of preferred ester-containing cationic surfactant can berepresented by the formula: {(R₅)₃N(CH₂)_(n)CH(O(O)CR₆)CH₂O(O)CR₆}⁺X⁻,wherein R₅, R₆, X, and n are defined as above. This latter class can beexemplified by 1,2-bis[hardened tallowoyloxy]-3-trimethylammoniumpropane chloride.

The cationic surfactants, suitable for use in the compositions of thepresent invention can be either water-soluble, water-dispersable orwater-insoluble.

Liquid Carriers

The compositions of the present invention may optionally comprise one ormore liquid carriers. The liquid carrier can be aqueous or non-aqueous;and can include water alone or organic solvents alone and/or mixturesthereof. Preferred organic solvents include monohydric alcohols,dihydric alcohols, polyhydric alcohols, glycerol, glycols, glycerin,polyalkylene glycols, such as polyethylene glycol, and mixtures thereof.

In a more preferred embodiment of the present invention, the one or moreliquid carriers are selected from the group consisting of water,ethanol, glycerol, propylene glycol, glycerine, and combinationsthereof. In a more specific embodiment said one or more liquid carriersare propylene glycol and water and mixtures thereof.

Suitable monohydric alcohols especially include C₁₋₄ alcohols, such asethanol, propanol, isopropanol and butanol. Preferred is1,2-propanediol. Highly preferred on the organic solvent side aremixtures of solvents, especially mixtures of lower aliphatic alcoholssuch as ethanol, propanol, butanol, isopropanol, and/or diols such as1,2-propanediol or 1,3-propanediol. The liquid carrier is typicallypresent at levels in the range of from 1% to 95%, preferably from 5% to70%, more preferably from 10% to 70%, even more preferably from 20% to70%, yet even more preferably from 30% to 70%, and most preferably from40% to 70% by weight of the composition.

A preferred combination of liquid carriers comprise water, ethanol andglycerol; for example in a ratio of about 16:1:3. Another liquid carriersystem comprise water and glycerin; for example in a ratio of about65:1, such as e.g. 60:1, 50:1, 40:1, 30:1 or 20:1. Alternatively apreferred liquid carrier is water.

A most preferred combination of liquid carriers comprises water andpropylene glycol. In an embodiment of the invention, water and propyleneglycol is comprised in a ratio of 10-18:0.5:1.5 by weight. In anembodiment of the invention, water and propylene glycol is comprised ina ratio of 12-16:0.8:1.2 by weight. In a preferred embodiment, water andpropylene glycol is comprised in a ratio of about 14:1 by weight.

Detergent Builder

The compositions of the present invention may optionally comprise abuilder, at levels of from 0.0% to 80% by weight, such as e.g. 1%, 5%,10%, or 20%, preferably from 3% to 70% by weight, more preferably from4% to 60% by weight of the composition. Preferably, the detergentaccording to the invention does not comprise a detergent builder.

In general any known detergent builder is useful herein, includinginorganic types such as zeolites, layer silicates, fatty acids andphosphates such as the alkali metal polyphosphates, and organic typesincluding especially the alkali metal salts of citrate (e.g. sodiumcitrate), 2,2-oxydisuccinate, carboxymethyloxysuccinate,nitrilotriacetate or the di- or trisodium salt thereof, and the like.Phosphate-free, water-soluble organic builders which have relatively lowmolecular weight, e.g., below 1,000, are highly preferred for useherein. Other suitable builders include sodium carbonate and sodiumsilicates having varying ratios of SiO₂:Na₂O content, e.g., 1:1 to 3:1with 2:1 ratio being typical.

Preferred are in particular saturated and/or unsaturated, linear and/orbranched, fatty acids, such as medium-chain fatty acids (C₆₋₁₂) orlong-chain fatty acids (C₁₂₋₁₈), and preferably mixtures of such fattyacids. In some instances of the present invention it is particularpreferred to use C₁₂₋₁₈ saturated and/or unsaturated, linear and/orbranched, fatty acids, and preferably mixtures of such fatty acids.Alternatively, or in combination, it may be preferred to use C₈₋₁₂saturated and/or unsaturated, linear and/or branched, fatty acids, andpreferably mixtures of such fatty acids, such as for example coconutfatty acids and salts thereof. Highly preferred have been found mixturesof saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, for example preferred is amixture of rape seed-derived fatty acid and C₁₆₋₁₈ topped whole cutfatty acids, or a mixture of rape seed-derived fatty acid and a tallowalcohol derived fatty acid, coconut fatty acids, palmitic, oleic, fattyalkylsuccinic acids, soybean oil fatty acids, and mixtures thereof.Preferably potassium cocoate (Mackadet® 40-K) and/or soft soap. Furtherpreferred are branched fatty acids of synthetic or natural origin,especially biodegradable branched types.

Mixtures of any of these fatty acid builders can be advantageous tofurther promote solubility. It is known that lower chain length fattyacids promote solubility but this needs to be balanced with theknowledge that they are often malodorous, e.g., at chain lengths of C₉and below.

While the term “fatty acid builder” is in common use, it should beunderstood and appreciated that as formulated in the present detergents,the fatty acid may be in at least partially neutralized to neutralizedform, the counter-ions can typically be alkanolamines, sodium,potassium, alkanolammonium or mixtures thereof. Preferably, the fattyacids are neutralized with alkanolamines such as Mono Ethanol Amine, andare fully soluble in the liquid phase.

Fatty acids may be builders in the compositions of the presentinvention. It has been found that the presence of fatty acid builderscontribute to the formation of a coacervate. The presence of fatty acidsbuilder in the compositions of the present invention is thereforepreferred

Suds Suppressor

The compositions of the present invention may optionally comprise andpreferably do comprise a suds suppressor. Suitable suds suppressors foruse herein may comprise essentially any known antifoam compound ormixture, typically at a level less than 10%, preferably 0.001% to 10%,more preferably from 0.01% to 8%, most preferably from 0.05% to 5%, byweight of the composition. Suitable suds suppressors can include lowsolubility components such as highly crystalline waxes and/orhydrogenated fatty acids, silicones, silicone/silica mixtures, or moresophisticated compounded suds suppressor combinations, for example thosecommercially available from companies such as Dow Corning. Compoundedsilicones are suitably used at levels of 0.005% to 0.5% by weight. Moresoluble antifoams include for example the lower 2-alkyl alkanols such as2-methyl-butanol.

Stabilizer

The compositions of the present invention may optionally comprise andpreferably do comprise a stabilizer. Suitable levels of this componentare in the range from 0.0% to 20%, preferably from 0.1% to 10%, and evenmore preferably from 0.1% to 3% by weight of the composition. Thestabilizer serves to stabilize certain components of the compositionsherein preventing them from coagulating and/or creaming.

Stabilizers suitable for use herein can be selected from thickeningstabilizers. These include gums and other similar polysaccharides, forexample gellan gum, carrageenan gum, and other known types of thickenersand rheological additives other than highly polyanionic types; thusconventional clays are not included.

More preferably the stabilizer is a crystalline, hydroxyl-containingstabilizing agent and/or hydrogenated jojoba, more preferably still, atrihydroxystearin, hydrogenated oil or a derivative thereof.

Chelatinq Agent

The compositions of the present invention may optionally comprise andpreferably do comprise a chelating agent. Suitable chelating agents foruse herein include nitrogen-containing, P-free aminocarboxylates, suchas EDDS, EDTA and DTPA; aminophosphonates, such as diethylenetriaminepentamethylenephosphonic acid and, ethylenediaminetetramethylenephosphonic acid; nitrogen-free phosphonates e.g., HEDP;and nitrogen or oxygen containing, P-free carboxylate-free chelatingagents, such as compounds of the general class of certain macrocyclicN-ligands, such as those known for use in bleach catalyst systems.Levels of chelating agents are typically lower than 6%, such as e.g.about 4-5%, or at levels of from 0.01% to 3%. In a preferred embodimentof the invention the chelating agent is selected from the groupconsisting of Aminotri(methylene phosphonic acid)penta sodium salt(Masquol P320 Na™), Methylglycinediacetic acid, trisodium salt (e.g.Trilon® M), and potassium tripolyphosphate. More preferably selectedfrom the group consisting of Aminotri(methylene phosphonic acid)pentasodium salt (Masquol P320 Na™), and Methylglycinediacetic acid,trisodium salt (e.g. Trilon® M). In a more preferred embodiment, the oneor more chelating agents is methylglycinediacetic acid (e.g. Trilon M)e.g. as the trisodium salt or other toxicological acceptable salts orsolvates thereof.

Other Constituents

The laundry detergent according to the present invention may furthermoreoptionally comprise foam-stabilizers (e.g. amine oxides, for examplecocoamine-N-oxide), anti-irritant agents, sequestering agent,brighteners, fragrances, dyes, dye-transfer inhibitors, pH adjustingagents (e.g. sodium citrate or triethanolamine), opacifiers,anti-oxidants, preservatives (e.g. Integra® 44) or combinations thereof.

For the purpose and intent of the present invention, the compositions ofthe present invention may typically have a pH ranging from pH 5.5 to pH14, such as e.g., from pH 5.5 to pH 7, from pH 6 to pH 7, preferablybetween pH 6.0 and pH 11, more preferably between pH 6 and pH 8.Alternatively the pH may be in a range from between pH 7.5 and pH 11. Inone preferred embodiment of the invention the pH is approximatelyneutral pH, about pH 7.

The laundry detergent according to the present invention may furthermoreoptionally comprise water soluble polymers, such as polymeric dispersingagents. Non-limiting examples thereof are for example copolymers ofacrylic acid and sulfonated monomers, e.g. Alcosperse®240, for providingdeposition control; or polymers of carboxylated and non-carboxylatedmonomers, e.g. Alcosperse 747, for providing detergens improvement.

The laundry detergent according to the present invention may furthermoreoptionally comprise fabric care ingredients, which are not fabriccleaning ingredients. In general, any fabric care ingredient known inthe art of detergent composition may be used. However, certain fabriccare ingredients are preferred, such as fabric care ingredients selectedfrom the group consisting of clays, silicon-free amine compounds,silicon-free quaternary ammonium based compounds, nitrogen-free siliconepolymers, amino silicone polymers, anionic silicone polymers, cationicsilicone polymers, polyolefins, and mixtures thereof. In a preferredembodiment of the present invention where the delicate laundry detergentis to be used especially for washing textiles containing wool it ispreferred that the composition comprises lanolin as a wool careadditive. The Lanolin may for example be PEG 75/50 LV lanolin, and maypreferably be present in an amount of about 0.5% to 5.0% by weight, suchas 2.0%. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention where thedelicate laundry detergent is to be used especially for washing textilescontaining silk it is preferred that the composition comprises agent tomaintain the silk textiles, such as for example Cosmacol® ESI, and maypreferably be present in an amount of about 0.1% to 5.0% by weight, suchas e.g. about 0.1% to 3%, 0.2% to 2%, 0.3% to 1%, preferably of about0.5% by weight. When included in the compositions of the invention,suitable concentrations of fabric care ingredients are in general from0.01% to 30%, preferably from 0.1% to 10%, and more preferably from 0.5%to 5.0% by weight of the composition.

The laundry detergent composition according to the present invention mayfurthermore optionally comprise a Cationic Deposition Aid, such as aModified Cationic Deposition Aid. This is especially preferred when thecompositions comprise one or more fabric care ingredients. Thedeposition aid is for enhancing the deposition rate and extend of e.g.an optional fabric care ingredient present. Typical levels of adeposition aid, if present, is in the range from 0.001% to 10%,preferably from 0.05% to 5.0%, more preferably from 0.1% to 2.5% byweight of the composition.

Preparation

The liquid laundry detergent compositions of the present invention canbe prepared in any suitable manner and can, in general, involve anyorder of mixing or addition of the composition components, unlessotherwise stated.

All patent and non-patent references cited in the application, or in thepresent application, are also hereby incorporated by reference in theirentirety.

Items

A particular aspect of the invention relates to below items 1-28:

-   1. A laundry detergent composition comprising one or more biocides-   2. The composition according to item 1, wherein the composition is a    delicate laundry detergent composition.-   3. The composition according to any of items 1 or 2, wherein the    composition is a liquid laundry detergent.-   4. The composition according to any of the preceding items, wherein    the one or more biocides are selected from the group consisting of a    PQ polymers; a polymeric biguanide polymer; an alkyl oxyethylene    methyl ammonium salt; dialkyl oxyethylene methyl ammonium salt;    povidone-iodine; an alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium salt; dialkyl    methyl benzyl ammonium salt; a dialkyl dimethyl ammonium salt; and a    bispyridine; or toxicological acceptable salts or solvates thereof.-   5. The composition according to any of the previous items, wherein    one of the one or more biocides is a polymeric biguanide polymer, or    toxicological acceptable salts or solvates thereof.-   6. The composition according to item 5, wherein the biocide is    selected from the group consisting of PHMB,    Poly(hexamethylenebiguanide) hydrochloride, Akacid Forte®, and    Akacid®, or other toxicological acceptable salts or solvates    thereof.-   7. The composition according to any of the previous items, wherein    one of the one or more biocides is an alkyl or dialkyl oxyethylene    methyl ammonium salt.-   8. The composition according to item 7, wherein the biocide is    selected from the group consisting of    N,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammonium propionate (Bardap 26)    and N,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammonium lactate.-   9. The composition according to any of the previous items, wherein    one of the one or more biocides is povidone-iodine.-   10. The composition according to any of the previous items, wherein    one of the one or more biocides is an alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium    salt or a dialkyl methyl benzyl ammonium salt.-   11. The composition according to item 10, wherein the biocide is    selected from the group consisting of Coco benzyl dimethyl ammonium    chlorides with predominantly C₁₂₋₁₄alkyl; dicoco benzyl methyl    ammonium chlorides with predominantly C₁₂₋₁₄alkyl; benzyl    C₁₂₋₁₈-alkyldimethyl ammonium chlorides; benzyl C₁₂₋₁₄-alkyldimethyl    ammonium chlorides, and C₁₂₋₁₃-alkyl[(ethylphenyl)methyl]dimethyl    ammonium chlorides (ADBAC).-   12. The composition according to item 10, wherein the biocide is    C₁₂₋₁₃-alkyl[(ethylphenyl)methyl]dimethyl ammonium chlorides    (ADBAC).-   13. The composition according to any of the previous items, wherein    one of the one or more biocides is a dialkyl dimethyl ammonium salt.-   14. The composition according to item 13, wherein the biocide is    selected from the group consisting of didecyl dimethyl ammonium    chloride, dioctyl dimethyl ammonium chloride, and octyl decyl    dimethyl ammonium chloride (DDAC).-   15. The composition according to any of the previous items, wherein    one of the one or more biocides is a bispyridine, or toxicological    acceptable salts or solvates thereof.-   16. The composition according to item 15, wherein the biocide is    Octenidine dihydrochloride.-   17. The composition according to any of the previous items, wherein    one of the one or more biocides is a PQ polymer, or toxicological    acceptable salts or solvates thereof.-   18. The composition according to item 17, wherein the biocide is    N,N-Dimethyl-2-hydroxypropylammonium chloride polymer.-   19. The composition according to any of items 1-4, wherein the one    or more biocides is a mixture of Akacid Forte® and Bardap-26.-   20. The composition according to any of the previous items, wherein    the composition do not comprise enzymes.-   21. The composition according to any of the previous items, wherein    the composition is suitable for washing at low temperatures in a    range of 5° C. to 40° C.-   22. The composition according to any of the previous items, wherein    the delicate laundry detergent further comprises    -   i) one or more surfactants;    -   ii) one or more liquid carriers;    -   iii) one or more chelating agents; and    -   iv) one or more detergent builders.-   23. The composition according to item 22, wherein the one or more    surfactants are selected from the group consisting of zwitterionic    surfactants, amphoteric surfactants, nonionic surfactants, cationic    surfactants, and mixtures thereof.-   24. The composition according to any of items 22 or 23, wherein the    one or more surfactants are selected from the group consisting of    Marlipal® 24/939, Daclor 70-1-23, Stepanol WA-extra E, Lutensol TO    89, Plurafac LF 300, Ampholac 7TX, and combinations thereof.-   25. The composition according to any of items 22-24, wherein the one    or more liquid carriers are selected from the group consisting of    water, ethanol, glycerol, glycerine, and combinations thereof.-   26. The composition according to any of items 22-25, wherein the one    or more chelating agents are selected from the group consisting of    Masquol P320 Na, Trilon M, Potassium tripolyphosphate, and    combinations thereof.-   27. The composition according to any of items 22-26, wherein the one    or more detergent builder are selected from the group consisting of    Mackadet® 40K, soft soap, sodium citrate, and combinations thereof.-   28. The composition according to any of the previous items, wherein    the composition is for washing of clothing or textiles considered to    be a source of infection, e.g. hospital laundry or nursing home    laundry.

FIGURES

FIGS. 1 and 2 display the CMC absorption data obtained for dilutedDetergent A (table 8a)

FIGS. 3 and 4 display the CMC absorption data obtained for dilutedDetergent B (table 8c)

FIGS. 5 and 6 display the CMC absorption data obtained for dilutedAkacid Forte

EXAMPLES

The following non-limiting examples are illustrative of the presentinvention. Percentages are by weight unless otherwise specified.

Example 1 Delicate Liquid Laundry Detergent for Wool and Fine Textiles

The below table provides a detergent composition to be combined with oneor more biocides as described herein. This particular detergentcomposition is preferably for washing wool, and may be used for otherfine textiles.

Ingredient Amount (% by weight) Marlipal 24/939 25.0%  Mackadet 40K 5.0%Sodium Citrate 10.0%  Masquol P320 Na 4-5% Alcoperse 240 1-2% Alcoperse747 1-2% Lanolin, PEG-75/50 LV   2% MGP, Glycerol 7.5% Ethanol 2.5%Water Up to 100%

Example 2 Delicate Liquid Laundry Detergent for Silk and Fine Textiles

The below table provides a detergent composition to be combined with oneor more biocides as described herein. This particular detergentcomposition is preferably for washing silk, and may be used for otherfine textiles.

Ingredient Amount (% by weight) Daclor 70-1-23 10.3% Stepanol WA-extra E16.7% Mackadet 40K 1.0% Marlipal 24/939 3.4% Cosmacol ESI 0.5% Integra44 0.3% opacifier q.s. Perfume q.s. Water Up to 100%

Example 3 Liquid Laundry for Textiles

The below table provides a detergent composition to be combined with oneor more biocides as described herein. This particular detergentcomposition is for washing textiles in general and may be used for finetextiles.

Ingredient Amount (% by weight) Soft soap 10-20% Sodium lauryl sulphate 5-10% Trilon M (MGDA) 0.5-2.0% Potassium tripolyphosphate  5-10%Lutensol TO 89  5-10% Plurafac LF300 1-3% Glycerine 1-3% Perfume andcolour q.s. Water 60-65%

Example 4

Assay for Biocidal Effect

The one or more biocides are assayed for in vitro biocidal effect. Theremay either be assayed one biocide alone or two or more biocides incombination. Five different concentrations of the one or more biocidesmay be assayed at e.g. two different temperatures in the range of 20-40°C. The exposure time of biocide to microorganism may be selected torepresent the desired washing process for the laundry detergentcomposition in question. For example 1 hour for a delicate laundrydetergent suitable for wool or silk wash, or 2 hours for a laundrydetergent suitable for heavy-duty wash of e.g. hospital textiles.

The one or more biocide may be assayed against the followingmicroorganisms: Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonasaeruginosa, and Candida albicans. Escherichia coli have been chosen inorder to represent a gram negative faecal bacteria; Staphylococcusaureus have been chosen in order to represent a gram positive, heattolerant bacteria; Pseudomonas aeruginosa have been chosen in order torepresent a disease causing bacteria that in some cases are difficult totreat; and Candida albicans represent the presence of fungi.

The reduction in the different microorganisms is quantified. This assaymay be used to determine the biocidal effect of one specific biocide, ora combination of biocides. The later determining whether asynergistically effect is obtained.

Example 4A Biocidal Effect Dosage Response

The assay is based on the requirements to chemical disinfectants andantiseptic agent with regard to a reduction in fungus and bacteria of 4and 5 log units respectively. These requirements are stated in DS/EN1276:1997 and DS/EN 1275:2005, respectively.

Microorganisms and Stock Cultures

The following microorganisms were chosen for this dosage responseassays: Staphylococcus aureus, ATCC 6538, representing grampositivebacteria; Escherichia coli, ATCC 11229, representing gramnegativebacteria; and Candida albicans, ATCC 2091, representing yeast fungi.

The bacterial cultures were cultivated in the growth medium TSB (TrypticSoy Bouillon) for 24 h at 37° C. before use. Colony forming units (CFU)were determined by plating Tryptic Soy Agar (TSA).

Candida albicans was cultivated on malt extract agar (MEA) for 24 h at37° C. before use. Then the yeast cells were harvested in 0.9% saline byuse of a drigalski spatula. CFU were determined by plating on MEA.

The above described cultures are termed the stock cultures.

Biocides

The biocides and concentrations assayed can be seen in Table 1.

TABLE 1 Test concentrations of biocides Test concentrations** Biocide700 ppm 200 ppm 160 ppm 120 ppm 80 ppm 40 ppm (% active) active activeactive active active active Akacid (25%) 2800 ppm 800 ppm 640 ppm 480ppm 320 ppm 160 ppm CAS 37457-91-5 Akacid Forte (25%) 2800 ppm 800 ppm640 ppm 480 ppm 320 ppm 160 ppm CAS 57028-96-3 Akacid Plus* (25%) 2800ppm 800 ppm 640 ppm 480 ppm 320 ppm 160 ppm CAS 37457-91-5 CAS57028-96-3 Lonzabac BG (20%) 3500 ppm 1000 ppm  800 ppm 600 ppm 400 ppm200 ppm CAS 27083-27-8 Bardap-26 (70%) 1000 ppm 286 ppm 229 ppm 171 ppm114 ppm  57 ppm CAS 94667-33-1 Barquat PQ-2 (50%) 1400 ppm 400 ppm 320ppm 240 ppm 160 ppm  80 ppm CAS 25988-97-0 *Akacid Plus is a mixture ofAkacid and Akacid Forte in a 1:1 ratio. **The test solutions wereprepared in aqueous solutions in a concentration corresponding to 10times the desired. (ppm = mg per kg/liter)

Exposure to Biocide

The exposure to biocide was performed at pH 6-6.5, which was obtained byaddition of 100 mM potassium phosphate buffer. To test tubes with 8 mLsterile 100 mM phosphate buffer were added 1 mL test solution (i.e.biocide solution) and 1 mL stock culture. After thorough mixing theassay mixtures were exposed to heating in water bath at 30° C. for 9minutes. After exposure the test tubes were immediately removed from thewater bath and the surviving microorganisms were determined by plating.

Reference samples were prepared by adding 1 mL sterile water instead of1 mL test solution.

Plating on Agar

From appropriate dilutions of starting material (mixture of biocidesolution, stock culture and buffer) was taken 0.1 mL onto agar plates,and the material was spread with Drigalski spatulas. The plates wereincubated at 37° C. 1 day for bacteria and 2 days for yeast.

For determining CFU of the bacteria after exposure, with and withoutbiocide, was used incubation on TSA for 24 h at 37° C. For determiningCFU of Candida albicans before and after exposure was used incubation onMEA for 48 h at 37° C.

Where a large reduction in organisms was expected (test concentrationsof 700 and 200 ppm) 1 mL and 0.1 mL solution, respectively, were mixedwith 100 ml sterile water and filtered through a 47 mm Millipore EZ-Pak®membrane filter, mesh 0.22 μm. The filter was rinsed with 100 mL sterilewater, and thereafter placed directly on the agar plate. The mixing inwater and subsequent rinsing ensures that the biocide is heavily dilutedand thus will not have any effect after plating. For dilutions of 100×and more, regular plating were used, as the biocide at theseconcentrations is considered to not provide any further reduction in themicroorganisms during plating on agar.

Plates with between 20 and 500 CFU were chosen for counting. Number ofCFU (colony forming units) per g or mL sample was calculated bymultiplying the number of colonies per plate with the dilution andfurther by 10, as only 0.1 mL was used on each plate.

After incubation, CFU was determined and reduction in organisms wascalculated. All tests were performed in triplicate.

Results

In relation to E. Coli, see Table 2, especially Bardap-26 and AkacidForte showed a good effect. The counting gave a reduction in organismsof >10⁷ for Bardap in a concentration of 160 ppm. The effect was smallerfor Akacid Forte where the reduction in organisms only was >10⁵. Theremaining biocides showed no or limited effect. Barquat PC-2 showed noeffect, and may be used as a negative control. These findings show theimportance of choosing the appropriate biocide for the intendedmicroorganism.

TABLE 2 Reduction obtained in E. coli Test concentrations** 700 ppm 200ppm 160 ppm 120 ppm 80 ppm 40 ppm Biocide active active active activeactive active (% active) C1 C2 C3 C4 C5 C6 Akacid (25%) ~10⁶ 10²-10³ Noreduction CAS 37457-91-5 Akacid Forte (25%) >10⁷ ~10⁵ ~10⁵ ~10³ 10²-10³No CAS 57028-96-3 reduction Akacid Plus* (25%) >10⁷ 10³-10⁴ 10²-10³ Noreduction CAS 37457-91-5 CAS 57028-96-3 Lonzabac BG (20%) >10⁷ 10³-10⁴10²-10³ No reduction CAS 27083-27-8 Bardap-26 (70%) >10⁷ >10⁷ >10⁷10⁴-10⁵ ~10⁴ ~10⁴ CAS 94667-33-1 Barquat PQ-2 (50%) No reduction CAS25988-97-0 *Akacid Plus is a mixture of Akacid and Akacid Forte in a 1:1ratio. **The test solutions were prepared in aqueous solutions in aconcentration corresponding to 10 times the desired. (ppm = mg perkg/liter)

In relation to Staphylococcus Aureus, see Table 3, especially Bardap-26at 160 ppm and in part Akacid Forte showed a good effect, while theremaining biocides showed no or very limited effect. Bardap-26 reducedStaphylococcus Aureus by >10⁷ at 160 ppm. Akacid Forte reduced by >10⁴.Barquat PQ-2 showed no effect, and may be used as a negative control.These findings again show the importance of choosing the appropriatebiocide for the intended microorganism.

TABLE 3 Reduction obtained in Staphylococcus Aureus Testconcentrations** 700 ppm 200 ppm 160 ppm 120 ppm 80 ppm 40 ppm Biocideactive active active active active active (% active) C1 C2 C3 C4 C5 C6Akacid (25%) >10⁸ <10⁵ <10⁵ ~10 No reduction CAS 37457-91-5 Akacid Forte(25%) >10⁶ 10⁵-10⁴ ~10⁴ No reduction CAS 57028-96-3 Akacid Plus* (25%)>10⁷ ~10² No reduction CAS 37457-91-5 CAS 57028-96-3 Lonzabac BG (20%)>10⁷ 10⁵-10⁴ 10⁵-10⁴ 10²-10³ 10²-10³ ~10 CAS 27083-27-8 Bardap-26 (70%)>10⁷ >10⁷ >10⁷ 10²-10³ 10²-10³ ~10² CAS 94667-33-1 Barquat PQ-2 (50%)<10⁵ No reduction CAS 25988-97-0 *Akacid Plus is a mixture of Akacid andAkacid Forte in a 1:1 ratio. **The test solutions were prepared inaqueous solutions in a concentration corresponding to 10 times thedesired. (ppm = mg per kg/liter)

In relation to Candida Albicans, see Table 4, especially Bardap-26showed a good effect, while the remaining biocides showed no or verylimited effect. Bardap-26 reduced Candida Albicans by 10⁴. Barquat PQ-2showed no effect, and may be used as a negative control. These findingsagain show the importance of choosing the appropriate biocide for theintended microorganism.

TABLE 4 Reduction obtained in Candida Albicans Test concentrations** 700ppm 200 ppm 160 ppm 120 ppm 80 ppm 40 ppm Biocide active active activeactive active active (% active) C1 C2 C3 C4 C5 C6 Akacid (25%) ~10⁴ ~10No reduction CAS 37457-91-5 Akacid Forte (25%) ~10⁴ No reduction CAS57028-96-3 Akacid Plus* (25%) ~10⁴ ~10 No reduction CAS 37457-91-5 CAS57028-96-3 Lonzabac BG (20%) ~10⁴ No reduction ~10 CAS 27083-27-8Bardap-26 (70%) 10⁴-10⁵ ~10⁴ ~10⁴ ~10³ 10²-10³ No CAS 94667-33-1reduction Barquat PQ-2 (50%) ~10⁴ No reduction CAS 25988-97-0

Example 4B Biocidal Effect Synergistical Effect

The optimal biocides, Bardap-26 and Akacid Forte, found in Example 4A,were further assayed for synergistically effect. Bardap-26 and AkacidForte was mixed in a 50:50 ratio, and the applied concentrations can beseen from Table 5. The methods and solutions were otherwise as describedin example 4A herein.

TABLE 5 Test concentrations of 50:50 mixtures of Bardap-26 and AkacidForte Test concentrations Biocide 700 ppm 200 ppm 160 ppm 120 ppm 80 ppm40 ppm (% active) active active active active active active Bardap-26(70%) 500 ppm + 143 ppm + 114 ppm + 86 ppm + 57 ppm + 29 ppm + CAS94667-33-1 + 1400 ppm 400 ppm 320 ppm 240 ppm 160 ppm 80 ppm AkacidForte (25%) CAS 57028-96-3

Results

As can be seen from Table 6, there was found a clear and surprisingsynergistical effect for all of the assayed organisms. The synergisticaleffect was especially evident for E. coli, as there was found a totalelimination. For Staphylococcus Aureus and Candida Albicans werelikewise found a synergistical effect, as the combination gave asignificant increase in reduction compared to the effects previouslyobserved for either biocide alone.

TABLE 6 Reductions obtained in three organisms by use of 50:50 mixtureof Bardap-26 and Akacid Forte

Gray indicates high effect.

Example 5 Assay for Washing and Biocidal Effect

The microorganisms, as mentioned in example 4, are inoculated on thetextile in question. For a delicate laundry detergent the textile iswool and/or silk, and for a detergent composition for heavy-laundry dutythe textile may be cotton, a cotton containing textile, a polyestercontaining textile etc.

The inoculated textile is washed by standardises methods with thelaundry detergent to be assayed. The wash is performed at differenttemperatures, concentrations, and under conditions suitable for theintended use of the laundry detergent composition.

The reduction in the different microorganisms is quantified.

This assay is used to determine the biocidal effect of the laundrydetergent under washing conditions.

Example 6 Liquid Laundry Detergent for Fine Textiles

The below table provides a liquid laundry detergent composition for finetextiles, i.e. a delicate laundry detergent, to be combined with one ormore biocides as described herein; preferably Bardap-26 or Akacid Forte,or a mixture thereof.

TABLE 7 Test concentrations of biocides Ingredient Amount (in g pr. Kg)Marlipal 24/939 250 g Ampholac 200 g Trilon M  30 g Propyleneglycol  50g Water 470 g

The liquid laundry may be prepared by adding the components to thespecified amount of water and stirring after addition of each component.Thereafter the pH is adjusted to pH 6.0-6.5.

Example 7 Liquid Laundry Detergent for Fine Textiles

The exemplified liquid laundry detergents for fine textiles, i.e.delicate laundry detergents, comprise:

-   -   one or more chelating agents such as but not limited to Trilon        M,    -   one or more non-ionic surfactants or monovalent cationic        surfactants such as but not limited to the surfactants selected        from the group consisting of Lutensol TO 89 and Marlipal 24/93    -   one or more liquid carriers such as but not limited to water and        propylene glycol    -   optionally one or more biocides such as but not limited to        biocides selected from the group consisting of Bardap-26 and        Akacid Forte.

Below detergents A, B and C were prepared with and without biocides(Tables 8a-f):

TABLE 8a Detergent A with biocides Ingredient Amount % (w/w) Water 69.5Propylene glycol 5 Trilon ® M 3 Lutensol TO 89 12.5 (90% (w/w)isotridecanolethoxylat, polymer (CAS nr. 69011-36-5)) Bardap-26comprising 70% CAS 94667-33-1* 5 Akacid Forte comprising 25% CAS57028-96-3** 5

TABLE 8b Detergent A without biocides Ingredient Amount % (w/w) Water79.5 Propylene glycol 5 Trilon ® M 3 Lutensol TO 89 12.5 (90% (w/w)isotridecanolethoxylat, polymer (CAS nr. 69011-36-5))

TABLE 8c Detergent B with biocides Ingredient Amount % (w/w) Water 69.5Propylene glycol 5 Trilon M 3 Marlipal 24/939 12.5 (90% CAS-NR68439-50-9 (w/w)) Bardap-26 comprising 70% CAS 94667-33-1* 5 AkacidForte comprising 25% CAS 57028-96-3** 5

TABLE 8d Detergent B without biocides Ingredient Amount % (w/w) Water79.5 Propylene glycol 5 Trilon M 3 Marlipal 24/939 12.5 (90% CAS-NR68439-50-9 (w/w))

TABLE 8e Detergent C with biocides Ingredient Amount % (w/w) Water 69.5Propylene glycol 5 Trilon ® M 3 Plurafac LF 300 12.5 (90% (w/w) CAS nr.69227-21-0)) Bardap-26 comprising 70% CAS 94667-33-1* 5 Akacid Fortecomprising 25% CAS 57028-96-3** 5 *A content of 5% (w/w) Bardap-26comprising 70% CAS 94667-33-1 in each of detergents A, B and C gives acontent of 3.5% (w/w) CAS 94667-33-1, which is the active ingredient inBardap-26. **A content of 5% (w/w) Akacid Forte comprising 25% CAS57028-96-3 in each of detergents A, B and C gives a content of 1.25%(w/w) CAS 57028-96-3, which is the active ingredient in Akacid Forte.

TABLE 8f Detergent C without biocides Ingredient Amount % (w/w) Water79.5 Propylene glycol 5 Trilon ® M 3 Plurafac LF 300 12.5 (90% (w/w) CASnr. 69227-21-0))

Liquid laundry detergents A, B and C with and without biocides may beprepared by adding the components to the specified amount of water andstirring after addition of each component. Thereafter the pH is adjustedto pH 6-7 using e.g. lactic acid.

The stability of liquid laundry detergents A, B and C with comprising 5%(w/w) Bardap-26 and 5% (w/w) Akacid Forte were analyzed after 1 weekstorage at −18° C., 5° C., 20° C. and 58° C.:

TABLE 9 Results obtained in stability test Storage temperature −18° C.5° C. 20° C. 58° C. Detergent A stable stable stable stable Detergent Bstable stable stable stable Detergent C stable stable stable stable

Detergent C without biocides is the only detergent of detergents Awithout biocides, B without biocides and C without biocides which wasnot stable.

CONCLUSION

No precipitate occurred in detergent A with biocides upon storage for 1week at −18° C. 58° C. No precipitate occurred in composition B withbiocides upon storage for 1 week at −18° C. 58° C. No precipitateoccurred in composition C with biocides upon storage for 1 week at −18°C. 58° C. In conclusion, liquid laundry detergents A, B and C arestable.

Detergent C without biocides is not stable.

Example 8 Biocidal Effect of Detergent and Detergent with Biocides

Bacteria and Yeast Stock Cultures

Staphylococcus aureus, ATCC 6538 representing Gram-positive bacteria.

Escherichia coli, ATCC 11229 representing Gram-negative bacteria.

Candida albicans, ATCC 2091 representing yeasts.

Bacteria were cultivated in TSB (Tryptic Soy Bouillon) at 37° C. for 24hours. This culture was designated bacterial stock culture.

Candida albicans was cultivated on MEA (Malt extract Agar) at 37° C. for24 hours. The yeast was harvested by adding 10 mL 0.9% NaCl per plateand the yeast loosened with a Drigalski spatula. The yeast suspensionwas collected in a jar with glass beads and whirled to ensure an evendistribution of the cells. This culture was designated yeast stockculture. Counts of yeast CFU after exposure was carried out using normalplate counts on MEA at 37° C. for 48 hours.

Biocide Stock Solution

A 12000 ppm biocides stock solution comprising 6000 ppm of the activeingredient in Akacid Forte (CAS 57028-96-3)+6000 ppm of the activeingredient in Bardap-26 (CAS 94667-33-1) was made in potassium phosphatebuffer, pH 6.0.

Test Solution 1

Test solution 1 was prepared by addition of 0.5 ml biocides stocksolution and 8.5 ml potassium phosphate buffer to sterile test tubes.Test solution 1 comprises no detergent.

Test Solution 2

Test solution 2 was prepared by addition of 1.0 ml biocides stocksolution and 8 ml potassium phosphate buffer to sterile test tubes. Testsolution 2 comprises no detergent.

Prior to use in test solutions 3-8, detergent solutions A and B with andwithout biocides were made in accordance with Example 7 and pH wasadjusted to 6.0-6.5 by adding of 1M NaOH.

Test Solution 3

Detergent A without biocides (table 8b) was diluted with water to aconcentration of 5.4 g/litre test solution:

-   -   Detergent A comprises 11.25% (w/w) of the active ingredient in        Lutensol TO 89 (CAS nr. 69011-36-5). Thereby test solution 3        comprises CAS nr. 69011-36-5 in an amount of 0.61 g/litre test        solution.

Test solution 3 comprises no biocide.

Test Solution 4

Detergent A with biocides (table 8a) was diluted with water to aconcentration of 6 g/900 ml test solution:

-   -   Detergent A comprises 11.25% (w/w) of the active ingredient in        Lutensol TO 89 (CAS nr. 69011-36-5). Thereby test solution 4        comprises CAS nr. 69011-36-5 in an amount of 0.675 g/900 ml test        solution.    -   Detergent A comprises 3.5% (w/w) of the active ingredient in        Bardap-26 (CAS NR 94667-33-1). Thereby test solution 4 comprises        CAS 94667-33-1 in an amount of 0.21 g/900 ml test solution.    -   Detergent A comprises 1.25% (w/w) of the active ingredient in        Akacid Forte (CAS NR 57028-96-3). Thereby test solution 4        comprises CAS 57028-96-3 in an amount of 0.075 g/900 ml test        solution.

In total, test solution 4 comprises biocides in the amount of(0.21+0.075)g/900 ml=0.285 g biocides/900 ml test solution

Test Solution 5

Detergent A with biocides (table 8a) was diluted with water to aconcentration of 12 g/900 ml test solution:

-   -   Detergent A comprises 11.25% (w/w) of the active ingredient in        Lutensol TO 89 (CAS nr. 69011-36-5). Thereby test solution 5        comprises CAS nr. 69011-36-5 in an amount of 1.35 g/900 ml test        solution.    -   Detergent A comprises 3.5% (w/w) of the active ingredient in        Bardap-26 (CAS NR 94667-33-1). Thereby test solution 4 comprises        CAS 94667-33-1 in an amount of 0.42 g/900 ml test solution.    -   Detergent A comprises 1.25% (w/w) of the active ingredient in        Akacid Forte (CAS NR 57028-96-3). Thereby test solution 4        comprises CAS 57028-96-3 in an amount of 0.15 g/900 ml test        solution.

In total, test solution 5 comprises biocides in the amount of(0.42+0.15)g/900 ml=0.57 g biocides/900 ml test solution

Test Solution 6

Detergent B without biocides (table 8d) was diluted with water to aconcentration of 5.4 g/litre test solution:

-   -   Detergent B comprises 11.25% (w/w) of the active ingredient in        Marlipal 24/939 (CAS-NR 68439-50-9). Thereby test solution 6        comprises CAS-NR 68439-50-9 in an amount of 0.61 g/litre test        solution.

Test solution comprises no biocide.

Test Solution 7

Detergent B with biocides (table 8c) was diluted with water to aconcentration of 6 g/900 ml test solution:

-   -   Detergent B comprises 11.25% (w/w) of the active ingredient in        Marlipal 24/939 (CAS-NR 68439-50-9). Thereby test solution 7        comprises CAS-NR 68439-50-9 in an amount of 0.675 g/900 ml test        solution.    -   Detergent B comprises 3.5% (w/w) of the active ingredient in        Bardap-26 (CAS NR 94667-33-1). Thereby test solution 4 comprises        CAS 94667-33-1 in an amount of 0.21 g/900 ml test solution.    -   Detergent B comprises 1.25% (w/w) of the active ingredient in        Akacid Forte (CAS NR 57028-96-3). Thereby test solution 4        comprises CAS 57028-96-3 in an amount of 0.075 g/900 ml test        solution.

In total, test solution 7 comprises biocides in the amount of(0.21+0.075)g/900 ml=0.285 g biocides/900 ml test solution

Test Solution 8

Detergent B with biocides (table 8c) was diluted with water to aconcentration of 12 g/900 ml test solution:

-   -   Detergent B comprises 11.25% (w/w) of the active ingredient in        Marlipal 24/939 (CAS-NR 68439-50-9). Thereby test solution 8        comprises CAS nr. CAS-NR 68439-50-9 in an amount of 1.35 g/900        ml test solution.    -   Detergent B comprises 3.5% (w/w) of the active ingredient in        Bardap-26 (CAS NR94667-33-1). Thereby test solution 4 comprises        CAS 94667-33-1 in an amount of 0.42 g/900 ml test solution.    -   Detergent B comprises 1.25% (w/w) of the active ingredient in        Akacid Forte (CAS NR 57028-96-3). Thereby test solution 4        comprises CAS 57028-96-3 in an amount of 0.15 g/900 ml test        solution.

In total, test solution 8 comprises biocides in the amount of(0.42+0.15)g/900 ml=0.57 g biocides/900 ml test solution

Experimental

9 ml of test solution 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 8 was added into a steriletest tube. 1 ml of bacterial stock culture or yeast stock culture wasadded immediately before exposure.

Thus, the concentration during exposure was as follows:

TABLE 10 Exposure concentrations Concentration (ppm) during exposureProduct Concentration 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Lutensol CAS nr. — — 610 675 1350 — — — TO 89 69011-36-5* Marlipal CAS-NR — — — — — 610 675 1350  24/93968439-50-9** Bardap- CAS NR 300 600 — 210 420 — 210 420 26 94667-33-1***Akacid CAS NR 300 600 —  75 150 —  75 150 Forte 57028-96-3**** Total 6001200  285 570 285 570 biocides

Test solutions were exposed to micro organisms for 9 minutes at 30° C.

The number of surviving bacteria was determined immediately afterexposure. The bacterial CFU (colony forming units) after exposure tobacteria was carried out using normal plate counts on TSA plates(Tryptic Soy Agar) at 37° C. for 24 hours. Counts of yeast CFU afterexposure was carried out using normal plate counts on MEA at 37° C. for48 hours.

All tests were performed in triplicate.

Results and Conclusion:

TABLE 11 Results from exposure Test solution Candida albicans Staph.aureus E. coli 1 ~10⁶ ~10⁷ ~10⁷ 2 >10⁶ ~10⁷ ~10⁷ 3 <10  None None 4 >10⁵~10⁷ ~10⁷ 5 >10⁶ ~10⁷ ~10⁷ 6 <10  None None 7 >10⁵ ~10⁷ ~10⁷ 8 >10⁶ ~10⁷~10⁷

When incorporating detergent C comprising Plurafac LF 300 (prepared inaccordance with example 7) into a test solution comprising Bardap-26 andAkacid Forte, then reductions as low as 10² of yeast are obtained.

The results show that (table 11):

-   -   A reduction of 10⁵ of yeast was obtained at the lower biocide        concentration present in test solutions 4 and 7.    -   A reduction of 10⁶ of yeast was obtained t the higher biocide        concentration present in test solutions 4 and 7.    -   A reduction of 10⁷ of bacteria was obtained at the biocide        concentration of test solutions 5 and 8    -   The same reduction was obtained for all test solutions when        exposed to Staph. Aureus and E. coli.    -   The same results were obtained for Lutensol TO 89 and Marlipal        24/939    -   There is no difference in the reduction of bacteria obtained for        test solutions 1 and 2 as compared to test solutions 4, 5, 6 and        7    -   There is no difference in the reduction of yeast obtained for        test solutions 1 and 2 as compared to test solutions 5 and 8    -   The addition of Lutensol TO 89 and Marlipal 24/939 did not have        any significant impact on the biocide effect of the biocides    -   No reduction of the tested organisms was seen when exposed to        test solutions 3 and 6.    -   Addition of Plurafac LF300 comprised in detergent C leads to a        reduction of yeast as low as a factor 100.

A reduction as high as 10⁵ of yeast was obtained after exposure to thebiocidal detergent compositions wherein the biocide concentration was aslow as 285 ppm. Accordingly, in a non-limiting example, exposure underthe same conditions to biocidal compositions wherein the biocideconcentration was as high as 600 or 1200 ppm without detergent onlyincreased the reduction of yeast with a factor 10 to a reduction ofyeast of 10⁶.

In one embodiment, the same reduction of yeast was obtained whenexposing to a biocidal composition without detergent and when exposingto a biocidal detergent composition. Accordingly, in a non-limitingexample, the same reduction of 10⁶ of yeast was obtained after exposureto biocidal detergent compositions comprising 570 ppm biocide and 600 or1200 ppm biocide composition without detergent.

In one embodiment, at least the same antibacterial effect was obtainedwhen exposing to a biocidal composition without detergent and whenexposing to a biocidal detergent composition. Accordingly, in anon-limiting example, the same reduction of 10⁷ of bacteria was obtainedafter exposure to biocidal detergent compositions comprising 285 or 570ppm biocide and 600 or 1200 ppm biocide composition without detergent.

The same reduction was obtained independently of the bacteria tested.

Conclusion

Based on the above results, it is concluded that addition of Lutensol TO89 and Marlipal 24/939 does not significantly have an impact on thebiocide effect of Marlipal 24/939 and Bardap-26.

Example 9 Test Solutions

Detergent A with biocides and detergent B with biocides obtained fromExample 7 tables 8a+c were tested.

Furthermore a solution comprising

Water 75% (w/w); and Akacid Forte 25% (w/w) was tested

Experimental

The critical micelle concentration is measured using Sudan Black Bdissolved in the test solutions at different concentrations. Sudan BlackB is dissolvable in micelles, only. A difference in the absorbancemeasured is thus a valid measure of the critical micelle concentrationin the test solutions.

Sudan black is of the below structure:

Absorbance was measured using a Shimadzu UV-1800 spectrofotometer andthe absorbance is measured at 600 nm.

Dilutions were made in water and Sudan Black B by adding first water,then Sudan Black B and at last the test solutions to 4 ml cuvettes. Thedilutions were then stirred and left for at least 6 hours at roomtemperature. Then the absorbance was measured.

Results

CMC for Detergent A (table 8a)

-   -   CMC for diluted Detergent A (table 8a) was measured to 0.097 g/l        (FIGS. 1 and 2)    -   Detergent A (table 8a) comprises 11.25% (w/w) of the active        ingredient in Lutensol TO 89 (CAS nr. 69011-36-5). Thereby,        diluted detergent A comprises CAS nr. 69011-36-5 in an amount of        10.9 mg/l solution.

CMC for Detergent B (table 8c)

-   -   CMC for diluted Detergent B (table 8c) was measured to 0.03 g/l        (FIGS. 3 and 4)    -   Detergent B (table 8a) comprises 11.25% (w/w) of the active        ingredient in Marlipal 24/939 (CAS-NR 68439-50-9). Thereby        diluted detergent B comprises CAS-NR 68439-50-9 in an amount of        3.38 mg/I solution.

CMC for Akacid Forte

-   -   CMC for diluted Akacid Forte was measured to 15 g/l (FIGS. 5 and        6)    -   This 15 g/l dilution is diluted from a 25% (w/w) solution of        Akacid Forte and thus comprises 3.75 g/l. Akacid Forte comprises        the active ingredient CAS 57028-96-3 in an amount of 25% (w/w).        Thereby the 15 g/l dilution comprises CAS 57028-96-3 in an        amount of 0.938 g/l

CMC for Bardap-26 is about 0.7-1.0 mmol/1 (data not shown)

1. A composition comprising a mixture of the biocidesPoly-(hexamethylene-guanidium chloride) andN,N-didecyl-N-methyl-poly(oxyethyl)ammonium 5 propionate, said biocideshaving synergistic effect, wherein said composition does not comprise asurfactant.
 2. A detergent composition comprising the biocidalcomposition according to claim 1 and one or more surfactants selectedfrom the group consisting of non-ionic surfactants and monovalentcationic surfactants, wherein said one or more surfactants are of thegeneral formula (I):R(OCH₂CH₂)_(x)OH wherein i) R is C₇₋₂₀-alkyl whereby the alkyl is of7-20 carbon atoms; said R may optionally be substituted with one or moresubstituents selected from the group consisting of alkyl,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₁₋₆-alkyl-C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl,aryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl, C₁₋₆-alkyl-aryl, C₁₋₆-alkyl-oxy, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-oxy,C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-C₁₋₆-alkyl-oxy, C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-oxy-C₁₋₆-alkyl,C₁₋₆-alkyl-oxy-C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl, C₁₋₆-alkyl-C₃₋₈-cycloalkyl-oxy,aryl-C₁₋₆-alkyl-oxy, and aryl, or R may optionally be substituted withone or two groups selected from the group consisting ofC₇₋₂₀-alkyl-(OCH₂CH₂)_(y)OH and C₇₋₂₀-alkyl-(OCH₂CH₂)_(z)OH; whereineach of y and z is an integer selected from 2-12; and ii) and x is aninteger selected from 2-12, with the proviso that when R is C₁₈-alkylthen y is not greater than x and z is not greater than x.
 3. Thecomposition according to claim 2, which further comprises i) one or moreliquid carriers; and ii) one or more chelating agents.
 4. Thecomposition according to claim 2 wherein x is 4-8.
 5. The compositionaccording to claim 2 wherein R is C₁₂₋₁₄-alkyl.
 6. The compositionaccording to claim 2 wherein at least 80% by weight such as at least 90%by weight of R is C₁₂-alkyl, C₁₃-alkyl or C₁₄-alkyl or mixtures thereof.7. The composition according to claim 2, said composition comprising asurfactant of formula (I) wherein R is substituted with one or moresubstituents selected from the group consisting of C₁₋₆-alkenyl,C₁₋₆-alkynyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkenyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₁₋₆-alkenyl,C₃₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₁₋₆-alkynyl, C₁₋₆-alkenyl-C₃₋₈-cycloalkenyl,C₁₋₆-alkynyl-C₃₋₈-cycloalkenyl, aryl-C₁₋₆-alkenyl, aryl,aryl-C₁₋₆-alkynyl, aryl, C₁₋₆-alkenyl-aryl, C₁₋₆-alkynyl-aryl,aryl-C₁₋₆-alkenyl, aryl-C₁₋₆-alkynyl, C₁₋₆-alkenyl-oxy,C₁₋₆-alkynyl-oxy, C₃₋₈-cycloalkenyl-oxy,C₃₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₁₋₆-alkenyl-oxy, C₃₋₈-cycloalkenyl-C₁₋₆-alkynyl-oxy,C₃₋₈-cycloalkenyl-oxy-C₁₋₆-alkenyl, C₃₋₈-cycloalkenyl-oxy-C₁₋₆-alkynyl,C₁₋₆alkenyl-oxy-C₃₋₈-cycloalkenyl, C₁₋₆-alkynyl-oxy-C₃₋₈-cycloalkenyl,C₁₋₆-alkenyl-C₃₋₈-cycloalkenyl-oxy, C₁₋₆-alkynyl-C₃₋₈-cycloalkenyl-oxy,arly-C₁₋₆-alenyl-oxy, aryl-C₁₋₆-alkynyl-oxy, arly-oxy-C₁₋₆-alkenyl,aryl-oxy-C₁₋₆alkynyl and aryl.
 8. The composition according to claim 2,said composition comprising a surfactant of formula (I) wherein R issubstituted with one or two groups selected fromC₇₋₂₀-alkyl-(OCH₂CH₂)_(y)OH and C₇₋₂₀-alkyl-(OCH₂CH₂)_(z)OH.
 9. Thecomposition according to claim 2, said composition comprising asurfactant of formula (I) wherein R is not substituted.
 10. Thecomposition according claim 2, wherein the one or more surfactants areselected from the group consisting of nonionic surfactants.
 11. Thecomposition according to claim 2, wherein the one or more surfactantsare selected from the group consisting of a C₁₂₋₁₄ alcohol polyethyleneglycol ether mixture.
 12. The composition according to claim 2, saidcomposition comprising only one surfactant which is selected from thegroup consisting of a C₁₂₋₁₄ alcohol polyethylene glycol ether mixturesuch as a mixture of fatty alcohols with 9 mol ethylene oxide and fattyalcohols with 3 mol ethylene oxide.
 13. The composition according toclaim 1, said composition comprising only one surfactant which isselected from the group consisting of iso-C₁₂₋₁₄ alcohol ethoxylates andcombinations thereof.
 14. The composition according to claim 2 which ischaracterized in that CMC(biocid)>MIC(biocid).
 15. The compositionaccording to claim 2 which is characterized in thatCMC(detergent)>MIC(biocid).
 16. The composition according to claim 1,said composition comprising one or more liquid carriers are selectedfrom the group consisting of water, ethanol, glycerol, propylene glycol,glycerin, and combinations thereof.
 17. The composition according toclaim 1, said composition comprising one or more liquid carriersselected from propylene glycol and water and mixtures thereof.
 18. Thecomposition according to claim 1, said composition comprising one ormore chelating agents selected from the group consisting ofamino-tri(methylene)phosphonic acid sodium salt (ATMP),methylglycinediacetic acid, Potassium tripolyphosphate, and combinationsthereof; or other toxicological acceptable salts or solvates thereof.19. The composition according to claim 2, wherein the composition issuitable for washing at low temperatures in a range of 5° C. to 40° C.20. The composition according to claim 2, wherein the composition is a adelicate laundry detergent composition.
 21. The composition according toclaim 2, wherein the composition is for washing of clothing or textilesconsidered to be a source of infection.
 22. The composition according toclaim 2, wherein the composition does not comprise enzymes.
 23. Thecomposition according to claim 2 which is a liquid laundry detergent.24. The composition according to claim 1, with or without surfactant,for use as: Disinfectants and general biocidal products; Preservatives;Pest control; preservatives for food or feedstocks; antifoulingproducts; Embalming and taxidermist fluids; and control of othervertebrates Vermin control on domestic animals, livestock or pets Algacontrol; and Products for use in spas or swimming pools.
 25. Thecomposition according claim 10, wherein the one or more surfactants arealkoxylated nonionic surfactants.
 26. The composition according to claim11, wherein the one or more surfactants are selected from the groupconsisting of a mixture of fatty alcohols with 9 mol ethylene oxide,fatty alcohols with 3 mol ethylene oxide, and iso-C13 alcoholethoxylate, and combinations thereof.
 27. The composition according toany of claim 2, said composition comprising only one surfactant which isselected from the group consisting of a mixture of fatty alcohols with 9mol ethylene oxide and fatty alcohols with 3 mol ethylene oxide.
 28. Thecomposition according to claim 13, said composition comprising thesurfactant is iso-C13 alcohol ethoxylate.